Orléans, a magical destination

Freed by jeanne d' arc in 1429, heroin which it commemorates each year at the time of traditional festivals, orleans is a cultural, tourist city and an important economic crossroads.

Sainte croix cathedral  The first cathedral was built in the IVth century, when Christianity was spreading through France along the banks of the Loire. The exact site of this cathedral is not known. However, records show that a cathedral existed on the site of the present building from the VIIth century, that it was known as Sainte Croix Cathedral and that it was destroyed by fire in 989. The Romanesque cathedral which replaced it was very generously proportioned: at the time it was one of the largest in France. In 1278 it partially collapsed and it was decided to construct a new building.

the orangery at the jardin des plantes  The structure was built in 1836 to house exotic plants, some of which flowered there for the first time in France. Today, it shelters magnificent specimens of palms under its glass roof. You’re bound to feel a change of surroundings with the palmetto humilis, the date trees and other coconut trees.

Unusual discoveries  Passage du Saloir Hôtel des Créneaux -allusion to the old salt storehouse which once stood nextdoor, a key place of trade in this famous royal city.  Hôtel des Créneaux  Followed by the visit of Hôtel des Créneaux and the collegial church Saint Pierre le Puellier(13th-16th century).

An eventful history  Maison de Jeanne d’Arc - Joan of Arc and the city of Orléans have always been bound by special ties. The city was recaptured from the English on 8 May 1429 by the girl known as ‘the Maid’.  This museum faithfully preserves the memory of her time within the city walls at the head of the royal army.

green time  Even in the middle of the city, nature is never very far away … Green Time gives you the possibility to discover the history and architecture of the City’s gardens, and also the wildlife and flowers in the Forest of Orléans or along the banks of the Loire. After a marathon of sightseeing, or a hard day’s work, this is a great way to relax and look at the city in a new light.

Campo santo  The former town cemetery, built in the 12th century, was enclosed by arcades from the 16th century before being judged insalubrious notably in the 18th century. After various periods of modification, the space - which houses the Institute of Visual Art - has now become a key part of Orléans cultural life, and is home to the Medieval Market, the Jazz Festival and other events.

orléans vinegar  In Orléans there is a great vinegar producing tradition dating back to the Middle Ages, according to which those regional wines being shipped by boat up and down the Royal River, the Loire, that turned sour during the long voyage were unloaded at Orléans and transformed into vinegar. An excellent vinegar that rapidly acquired a fine reputation, causing it to be exported to the Netherlands and later to India and the Americas. Orléans has been famous for its vinegar since the 14th century.  Visit of Martin Pouret's company, the last great vinegar maker of Orléans.