Sightseeing in Besancon - what to see. Complete travel guide

Ancient city Besancon is considered the historical capital of the Franche-Comté region. This is the motherland of such outstanding scientists and people of art as Lumiere brothers, Victor Hugo, Jean Baptiste Fourier and Proudhon. Here appeared first manufacturers of watches in France and Besancon was also the first Italian city that started making artificial silk.

The city is generously decorated with magnificent buildings. It has managed to retain its historical and architectural sights that amaze visitors by their grace and uniqueness for many centuries.

Pointe-Noire is known as the main sight of Besancon. It was built by the Romans yet in the II century AD. One more magnificent building of XVIII century is Saint-Jean Cathedral. However, if it usually takes a couple of hours to view these sights, in order to study the local citadel you will need to spend several days. The citadel is occupied by several exhibition centers. There you can find first watches made here several centuries ago and modern masterpieces in this area. The Museum of Hugo will provide you with information concerning the biography and works of this famous French writer. You can also visit the Museum of Natural History, Town Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, Pale-Granville castle, and see huge Astronomic clocks that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

One more nice surprise waits for those who have sweet tooth. There is a small town named Pontarlier not far from Besancon. This town is famous for its large chocolate factory, one of best in France. All tourists can attend an excursion to this factory and try the sweets and chocolate made by the local confectioners. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Amongst many religious sites, noteworthy is the Abbey of St. Paul. It was founded in the 7th century, only the ruins of some buildings have survived to this day. The best preserved is the ancient church of St. Paul, the facade of which remains untouched since the 14th century. It is a vivid example of the Gothic style, this church has preserved perfect old design and many interesting artefacts. Several years ago, a museum was opened within the church, which today is regarded as the cultural object of state’s significance. 

In the city there are numerous beautiful ancient palaces, one of the most interesting is considered Granvel Palace. It was built in the 16th century and is typical of the architectural monument of the Renaissance, for hundreds of years the palace remained virtually unchanged. This architectural monument has rich and interesting history, during the years of its existence at various points it housed Academy, Theatre and Museum of History, and now a rich exhibition of the Museum of time is there. One of the main features of the palace is a charming patio; in the warmer months, theatrical performances and concerts are often performed there. 

The complex of incredibly beautiful historic buildings is taken by Besançon casino, it is actually a gorgeous entertainment multiplex. Even in the late 19th century there was a spa complex, sophisticated hotel and casino, only the wealthiest locals and visitors of the city could afford to rest here. Today in this historic complex located in the best thalassotherapy centre, there is still an expensive hotel, and even a national cuisine restaurant. Spending time here will be interesting not only for fans of gambling; on the territory of the entertainment complex is a field for the game of golf, as well as excellent conditions for events. 

Fans of theatre art should visit the municipal theatre of Besancon, its opening was held back in 1778. Until the second half of the 20th century, this historic theatre has existed virtually unchanged, but in 1958 there was a large fire in it. The fire completely destroyed the main hall of the theatre, which later was fully restored. Today, this theatre hosts the most important cultural events, and it preserves an atmosphere of past.