1.8 C
Arrondissement de Cognac
Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Things To Do in the Town of Cognac France – Walk the Vielle Ville (Old Town)

Date:

Share post:

HomeThings To Do In Cognac FranceThings To Do in the Town of Cognac France – Walk the...

The St Jacques Towers CognacThe town of Cognac’s medieval quarter “Vieux Cognac” runs from the Tours Saint-Jacques, alongside the river, up to the Saint-Léger church. The area contains many unusual buildings, built between the 15th and 18th centuries, situated on narrow cobbled streets. Many contain sculptures of the salamander, the symbol of King François I of France, as well as gargoyles and richly decorated façades.

Here are a few of the must-see sights as you walk the old town (not including near by Cognac House Tours):

The St Jacques Towers – Built in the 15th century, this was the former gateway into the town. The two towers are the most visible remains of the medieval town walls.

The Castle of the ValoisThe Castle of the Valois – King François the 1st, one of the most important rulers of the Renaissance, was born here in 1494. The castle is currently home to Otard Cognac, an important cognac house.  See www.otard.com for details.

Saint Léger Church and Priory
Saint Léger Church and Priory

Saint Léger Church and Priory – This church was build in the early 12th century in the form of a Latin cross with cupolas.  The Romanesque façade was changed with the insertion of a large rose window.

La Maison de la Lieutenance – This large half-timbered house, built in the 16th century, includes sculpted heads.  The Lieutenant General of Cognac stayed here in the beginning of the 17th century, and that is where is got its name.

L’Hôtel Brunet du Bocage et L’Hôtel Perrin de Boussac  – These two 16th/17th century residences along the Rue Saulnier are former properties of salt traders and later cognac merchants.  The completely renovated Hôtel Perrin deBoussac  is now home to the Muséedes Arts du Cognac, dedicated to all aspects of the cognac trade and a must stop on your visit.

L’Hôtel de Rabayne – This town house located at the top of Rue Magdeleine, probably dates from the time of François 1st. Look for the sculpted Salamander, the emblem of King François 1st.

La Maison de la Lieutenance
La Maison de la Lieutenance

For a tourism flyer with map, go to:

http://www.tourism-cognac.com/telechargement/discovering_cognac.pdf

Previous article
Next article

Subscribe to the Cognac.com Newsletter

Related articles

Hennessy Cellars To Be Taxed as Industrial Buildings, Not Farm Structures

Hennessy has lost its appeal to have its cellars taxed as farm structures rather than industrial buildings. A...

The Economics of Cognac

Cognac: The Impact of a World Renown Product on the Local Economy The development of the cognac industry was...

The Brandy Fix: A Timeless Elixir Elevated by the Elegance of Cognac

In the illustrious world of classic cocktails, the Brandy Fix emerges as a hidden gem, offering a delightful...

Cognac Vines Hit By Potentially Devastating Frost

The Cognac region was struck by a rare spring frost earlier this week. Temperatures were well below freezing...