UNESCO World Heritage Sites, “towns of art and history” and commemorative sites all help us head back in time and delve into the history of the region.
Discover the vestiges of a past rich in history at sites such as the Château de Bligny, the cathedral in Reims, the castle once occupied by Voltaire, and the citadel in Rocroi.
Find out more at www.champagne-ardenne-tourism.co.uk
Château de Bligny
Although the history of the oldest lords of Bligny - the Sires de Chacenay – dates back to the 12th century, it was the Marquis de Dampierre who built the castle in the 17th century, close to the source of the Landion, on a hill particularly suited to growing vines. Still inhabited to this day, the castle is open to visitors. Start your tour in the drawing rooms, which house a collection of 1,000 crystal glass champagne flutes! In addition, an ecomuseum, occupying the magnificent cellars, boasts a collection of early-20C machines and tools from the region which were used in the vineyards. A film provides further information on the subject, with an introduction to the vineyards, as well as an insight into production techniques and the champagne-making process...the free tasting at the end of the visit will enable you to judge the quality for yourself!
Château de Bligny – Tel: 0033 325 27 40 11 – www.champagnechateaudebligny.com
All the castles in the Champagne-Ardenne>>
Other castles and touring route suggestions can be found in the “Castles & Fortresses” brochure>>
Cirey sur Blaise - the castle where Voltaire once lived
Sensitive to the charms of the beautiful Émilie du Châtelet, the French philosopher Voltaire quickly succumbed to the attractions of what at the time was an unfinished property, and together they worked on plans to transform and embellish the castle. Voltaire added a new wing ornamented with a monumental doorway with sculptures evoking the Arts, Sciences and the maritime world. Voltaire spent fifteen years in Cirey, writing tirelessly (La Mort de César, Alsire, Zaïre, Mahomet, Mérope etc). His plays and tragedies were performed by his friends on the stage of the small theatre created by him on the top floor of the château and which remains in pristine condition. From this artistic hideaway Voltaire remained in contact with the whole of Europe via his innumerable letters. In 1749, the sudden death of the Marquise du Châtelet was to separate Voltaire from this earthly paradise for ever. A visit to the castle provides an opportunity to delve into the everyday lives of these two major characters from the Age of Enlightenment. Open from May to September. (See also “Great Men - Voltaire”)
Château de Cirey-sur-Blaise – Tel: 0033 325 55 43 04 – www.visitvoltaire.com
All the castles in the Champagne-Ardenne>>
Other castles and touring route suggestions can be found in the “Castles & Fortresses” brochure>>
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