Nestling at the foot of the Vercors in Drôme, Romans-sur-Isère is an ancient medieval town. It all begain in 837 when the Archbishop of Vienne, Barnard, founded a church on the banks of the Isère. Then it became a collegiate church when the canons arrived in the 10th century. The town gradually developed around it and became the beating heart of Romans-sur-Isère. A mixture of Romanesque and Gothic styles, the building reflects a remarkable architectural heritage. Inside the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, the embroidered wall hanging of the Mystery of the Passion is a true gem! Dating from the 16th century, it depicts the Passion of Christ in nine embroideries. The collegiate church's choir, meanwhile, reveals some beautiful murals from the 14th century.
At the end of the 19th century, Romans-sur-Isère enjoyed fast economic growth thanks to the expansion of the footwear industry. Based in the former convent of the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary since 1971, the International Shoe Museum has a unique collection. It tells 4,000 years of footwear history all around the world! The Italian-style gardens around the museum are a great place for visitors to admire the building's very well-preserved architecture.
Then explore the picturesque side streets of the historic centre, like Rue des Clercs, a typical street with its cobblestones and old houses. There are also the shopping streets around the Côte des Cordeliers. On the walk, you will be able to admire some beautiful medieval houses as well as some elegant Renaissance mansions. You will also see the Jacquemart Tower, which was the gate of the first rampart built in 1164. In the 15th century, the tower stood in elevation above the town. It was fitted with a clock featuring an automaton, called a Jacquemart, which still strikes the hours today. In the Presle district, you will see old tanners' houses with wooden balconies and covered steps from the 15th century, an integral part of a Way of the Cross.
A listed Historic Monument, the Recollects' Calvary marks the end of the Way of the Cross called the Long Journey (Le Grand Voyage), and is another emblematic site in Romans-sur-Isère. Founded in 1516, it became an important pilgrimage site and to this day it remains a living part of the local heritage, especially on Good Friday.
When it comes to gastronomy, Romans-sur-Isère's specialities are sure to give your taste buds a treat! The delicious pogne in particular, a crown-shaped brioche flavoured with orange blossom. Or the famous ravioles, small squares of thin pasta filled with cheese and parsley.
