Famous gastronomic centre, Roanne is also a river town with a pleasant marina, whose quays along the canal are perfect for a stroll.
Besides the architectural heritage and the shopping streets of the town centre, the visitor can also discover the Joseph Déchelette museum, situated in a 18th-century mansion, which houses collections of archaeological objects, paintings, sculptures and ceramics.
Located on the banks of the Loire, in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, Roanne is a city rich with more than 2000 years of history. The one called Rodumna, in the Gallo-Roman period, still retains many traces of this glorious past, through its monuments, but also its culture.
The city of Roanne, through its old center, its small harbor and its renowned international gastronomy, attracts all passing visitors. Their taste buds remain charmed by, in particular, the presence of the Troisgros brothers, who made the success of this city located just one hour from Lyon or Saint-Etienne.
Hikers will appreciate the proximity to the gorges of the Loire, while lovers of history and beautiful architecture will also find their happiness by strolling along the lively streets of this jewel of the Loire.
Of human size, Roanne resplendent by the warmth of its inhabitants, as well as by the accents of the south which are reflected in its architecture and its way of life. Difficult to miss this little paradise of the south of France.
Its ancient splendor, Roanne has preserved many vestiges. Walking through the streets of the city, you can see various monuments and other beauties with the richness of this city of the Loire.
Religious monuments to discover no shortage of Roanne, and the most beautiful of them is surely Saint-Etienne church all in gold and pink stones. It is the oldest parish in Roanne. It was built around 1343 and destroyed several times throughout history. The building visible today dates from the late nineteenth century. Remains of the various constructions are however present and the primitive architecture blends beautifully with the new Gothic Revival elements. Do not miss it, the organ of the church that were once installed in the choir of the Cathedral Notre-Dame de Paris. The Church of Our Lady of Victories, St. Anne's Church, or the Church of St. Louis, Romanesque-style building built in the late nineteenth century, no shortage of charm either.
Built in 1630, the Saint-Nicolas-du-Port chapel was built by the mariners anxious at the thought of reaching the plague in their city. It still stands today near the docks of the marina.
Today Roanne oldest building, the tower of the twelfth century was once part of the castle. Historical monument, in its time it housed the court and prisons. It is located in the old center of Roanne, close to Gallo-Roman pottery kilns. Tours of the old center are organized by the Tourist Office in July and August.
Joined partly historic monument, the Museum of Fine Arts and Archeology Joseph-Déchelette reveals true wonders. Founded in 1844, it allows to admire archaeological collections, including Celtic and Gallo-Roman art, as well as art collections from the fifteenth to the twentieth century.
Located in an old medieval house, the House of Crafts of Roanne, in the historic center, hosts various exhibitions.
The marina is one of the major tourist attractions of Roanne. Inaugurated in 1994, it is located in the city center, and today is a starting point for a walk along the canal.
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City livelier, Roanne no shortage of events to liven up the streets and help to learn a little more about the history of this ancient city.
In March, the runners up with the All Roanne Court, a foot race that crosses different streets of downtown Roanne. Since 2010, the city also hosts the end of March, the famous international festival of film-Court Lively, the opportunity to attend many projections.
In June, Party in the Loire is the opportunity to spend a whole weekend to enjoy many activities. Family entertainment, sporting activities or discoveries in nature are proposed along the Loire.
In summer, relaxing place! Following the example of the famous Paris-Plage, the city organizes its Roanne Plage in July and August. At that time, a sandy beach is equipped at the feet of the Harbour, between the canal and the Loire. July is also the time that sees every year the organization of the famous cycling tour of the Country Roannais.
It was in October that the city of Roanne knows more animations. It is at this time of year as the Horse festival takes its place, as does the Charolais festival. The latter is organized every last weekend of October and to discover through animals or tasting contest, Charolais beef.
Roanne Open Table is a festival that allows us to appreciate the culinary tradition of the city of the Loire. Hundreds of dinner shows are organized throughout the month of October, and many artists perform there, as different universe from that dance, theater or cabaret.
The traditional cold fair takes for its place on the port Roanne, every first Saturday of December. The opportunity to enjoy the various entertainment and many stalls of local craftsmen.
