You only have to stroll for a few minutes through this pretty Charente town to understand the rich history of Saint-Jean-d’Angély. Its heritage is revealed along winding narrow streets in which medieval houses with wood panelling sit beside mansion houses from the XVIII Century. There are so many wonderful discoveries for a small town of 7,000 inhabitants. It feels like a journey through the ages…It’s from the top of the towers at the abbey church, unfinished since the Revolution, that the green and undulating countryside reveals itself. A truly beautiful journey!
The two towers of Saint-Jean-d'Angely
Their presence is evidence of the desire of the monks to undertake an enormous construction project in the XVIII Century. History could well have decided otherwise, but the towers of the abbey church still preside over the town centre to this day.
The belfry or clock tower
One of the emblems of the town, it was through here that visitors would enter Saint-Jean-d’Angély in the 13th century.
Along the waterway
The waterway and the trail along the River Boutonne are part of the people of Anger’s heritage, if not architectural then certainly « affectionate»! It’s so pleasant to stroll here and to take the time to hire a boat in summer so you can paddle away in perfect tranquillity.
L'Eden
Several months ago the town reopened the doors to its very own Eden. A concert hall and venue for cultural events, it plays host to artists of every genre! An ambiance and decor in the Art Deco style makes the venue so authentic!
The local producer’s market
Every Saturday morning, this market is held in the heart of the town centre in a covered hall dating from the XVIII Century. You can imagine the same stalls and colours being there two centuries ago.
For more information: - Office de Tourisme Saintonge Doree
By Rédaction France.fr
The magazine of the destination unravels an unexpected France that revisits tradition and cultivates creativity. A France far beyond what you can imagine…
