A former stronghold of Côte d'Or, Auxonne is an important historical and military heritage site. The monuments and remains that can still be seen in the town bear witness to its eventful past. Starting with the fortifications, flanked by bastions and towers, which were built during the Thirty Years' War and then reworked by Vauban in the 17th century. As for the castle built during the reign of Louis XI, the building developed over time and was given a barracks by Vauban in 1688. Vauban, a famous architect and military engineer, also designed the arsenal, a group of vast wooden and brick hangars with colossal doors.
During your visit to Auxonne, don't hesitate to climb the 169 steps of the tower at the Church of Our Lady, which will take you to the top of this listed historic monument. From there, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the town and the surrounding countryside! Before leaving the church, don't forget to take a look at the magnificent 15th-century statue of the Virgin with Grape, attributed to the sculptor Claus de Werve.
The town also pays tribute to Napoleon Bonaparte, who was a student at the Royal Artillery School of Auxonne from 1788 to 1791, with a museum about the famous leader and a statue on the beautiful Place d'Armes. This town square is made even more attractive by the charming, picturesque houses surrounding it.
