Bourg-en-Bresse is a charming town located in central France, known for its rich history, architecture, and gastronomy. The town has a long history dating back to Roman times. In the Middle Ages, Bourg-en-Bresse became a prosperous trading town, eventually becoming the capital of the historic region of Bresse under the Dukes of Savoy. After much conflict, the town became a part of France after the Franco-Savoyard treaty was signed in Lyon in , marking the return of Bresse to France.
The old ramparts and citadel of the city were demolished in , so that the city would be fully under French rule. The historic center of Bourg-en-Bresse today is a picturesque area with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and charming shops and cafes. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the town, admiring the architecture and soaking up the atmosphere. The Royal Monastery of Brou is a large religious complex built on the edge of Bourg-en-Bresse city center in the 16th century.
The monastery is known for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and beautiful gardens that you can wander through. It is a major landmark in the city, immediately attracting attention. Legend has it that a local shepherd discovered an image of the Virgin Mary in the trunk of a willow treeand brought it back to the church. An alternative version says that a statue of the Black Madonna was being carved in the wood of the tree.
One of the more quirky tourist attractions in Bourg-en-Bresse is a historic apothecary shop that was a former hospital pharmacy selling herbs and other medicinal plants. You can walk through and see the old laboratory as well as the pots and jars holding ancient medicines.
It was transferred here at the end of the 18th century, with the apothecary shop closing down in Today, it is managed by the Bourg-en-Bresse Tourist Office to keep its historic heritage. There are several outdoor markets held in Bourg-en-Bresse including Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 a. There is also market on Sunday mornings from 8 a.
