Canal de Berry, Historical canal system in central France.
The Canal de Berry extends across 261 kilometers through central France, featuring a network of waterways connecting the Loire River at Marseilles-lès-Aubigny to Noyers.
Construction of the Canal de Berry occurred between 1809 and 1839, with Spanish prisoners of war performing the majority of labor during the 1820s period.
The canal system transported essential goods including cast iron from Montluçon forges, coal, pit props, wines, and spirits throughout the region until its closure.
Currently, 15 kilometers of the canal remain functional with five operational locks between Selles-sur-Cher and Noyers-sur-Cher, offering recreational activities along its banks.
The canal's narrow design limited vessel width to 2.7 meters, requiring specialized barges called 'berrichons' that could transport up to 60 tonnes of cargo.
Location: France
Address: Canal de Berry, France
GPS coordinates: 46.77694,2.73694
Latest update: July 30, 2025 14:00
The Centre-Val de Loire showcases a diverse heritage, from medieval fortresses like Château de Lavardin to Renaissance structures. The region features protected natural sites such as the Chérine Nature Reserve and the Domaine du Ciran, which host hundreds of bird species in their ponds and woodlands. The Savonnières Pétrifiantes Caves illustrate local geological phenomena, while the Briare Canal Bridge demonstrates 19th-century engineering. This selection also includes historical and cultural sites, from the Dunois Mill preserving 17th-century mechanisms to the Marcel Proust Museum housed in an authentic residence. The Picassiette House in Chartres exhibits Raymond Isidore's unique work over several decades. The Parc Floral de la Source and the Saint-Ours Collegiate complete this exploration combining Gothic religious architecture with themed gardens, providing diverse discoveries accessible to visitors.
Château de Sagonne
10.6 km
Château de Bannegon
3.2 km
Donjon de Jouy
11.2 km
Château du Creuzet
13 km
Château de Bonnais
13.5 km
Étang de Pirot
12.1 km
Église Saint-Germain
13.3 km
Abbaye Notre-Dame de Bellavaux de Charenton
8.9 km
Église Saint-Éloi de Chalivoy-Milon
9.5 km
Église Notre-Dame de Charly
13.6 km
Église Saint-Étienne
8.2 km
Église Notre-Dame de Coust
14.2 km
Église Saint-Martin de Charenton-du-Cher
8.9 km
Fortifications of Ainay-le-Château
8 km
Église Saint-Roch de Neuilly-en-Dun
4.4 km
Église Saint-Antoine de Braize
14.5 km
Croix des Thianges
14 km
Château de la Forêt
9 km
Église Saint-Pierre de Saint-Pierre-les-Étieux
9.8 km
Église Saint-Saturnin de Thaumiers
8 km
Église Saint-Ludre d'Augy-sur-Aubois
8.1 km
Halle de Blet
13.3 km
Ancienne église Notre-Dame de Vernais
2.1 km
Église Saint-Aignan de Saint-Aignan-des-Noyers
6.2 km
Église Saint-Martin d'Arpheuilles
13.4 km
Saint Roch Chapel, Ainay-le-Château
8.1 km
Église Saint-Martin de Bessais-le-Fromental
3.9 km
Église Saint-Sulpice de Bannegon
3.2 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes