Does the heritage tourism experience fascinate you? This article highlights some historical places to visit sites in France.
Whether or not history fascinates you Europe has a lot of it. If you are looking for heritage tourism destinations, France will not disappoint. France has vibrant heritage tourism and will give you a rich historical experience. The importance of heritage tourism is that it preservers France’s historic sites.
Historic Heritage Tourism Attractions in France
Most are familiar with historic cultural attractions the Eiffel Tower and Louvre museums. This article will not cover those European architectures.
There are many other cultural attractions and UNESCO World Heritage Sites in France. Some of which dates back to centuries ago. At least three of the historical sites below are world heritage sites.
01. Famous Historical Place: Palace of Versailles
This is one of the most popular attraction sites in Paris. Having been a UNESCO World Heritage Site for more than 3 decades. The 17th-century piece of architecture symbolized King Louis XIV’s supremacy. But, today, it attracts millions of visitors every year. A visit to Chateau de Versailles gives more insight into the royal lifestyles back then. Its entrance is grand while its interiors have crystal, gold, and precious gems. You can explore the gardens, the stunning Hall of Mirrors, and the King’s and Queen’s Grand Apartments. Also, see the Grand Trianon Palaces and learn about the History of the Chateau Collection.
02. Historical House: House of George Sand
Authors of old had a unique flair when they penned their literary pieces. French authors know how to tell romantic tales. Paris, France is known as the City of Love after all. The novelist George Sand (Amantine Dupin) is an author of the European Romantic era. House of George Sand is her former home an attraction in France. So you can check it out while in the Indre department of France. Sightseeing of the House of George Sand should be on the list of places to visit. George Sand wrote many books from there. One thing that is unique about the house is that its décor and furniture dating back to the 1800s are still intact. It is home to a remarkable 6-hectare garden with a meadow orchard, kitchen, rose, and flower garden. It is one of the Notable Gardens of France according to the French Ministry of Culture. If you are Nohant, you can attend the Nohant Festival.
03. Historical Tourism Site: Palace of Tau
This is the former home of the archbishop of Reims. The palace of Tau is a good example of a neoclassical style of architecture. It got its name in 1131. Before coronations, France Kings would stay there, and after, they would hold banquets. Some of the highlights of the palace include liturgical objects, statuary, and tapestries. Palace of Tau is now a museum. Due to its historical significance, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you explore the palace museum, do not miss the highlights and artifacts. They include a 12th-century gem-encrusted chalice and talisman of Charlemagne dating back to the 9th century.
04. Historical Place to Visit: Lascaux Caves
This will give you the heritage tourism experience. In the department of Dordogne, France lies a complex of caves. Lascaux Caves is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The highlight of the caves is the Palaeolithic paintings on the walls and ceilings. There are more than 600 paintings that date back to different generations. The art pieces include contemporary and local fauna, human figures, and large animals. There are over 2,000 paintings in Lascaux Caves. The sections that are a must-visit include; the Lateral Passage, the Chamber of Engravings, the Chamber of Felines, the Great Hall of the Bulls, the Shaft of the Dead Man, and the Painted Gallery.
05. Cultural and Heritage Tourism Site: Chateau de Montsoreau
Sitting on the Loire riverbed is the Chateau de Montsoreau. Its history dates back to the 11th century. In the year 2016, Chateau de Montsoreau was converted into a museum. It is home to the largest collection by Art and Language Movement in the world. Chateau de Montsoreau focuses on conceptual art. One of the artists inspired by this Renaissance-style castle was Alexandre Dumas. He wrote about Chateau de Montsoreau in his novel La Dame de Monsoreau. This contributed to Chateau de Montsoreau’s popularity. Other artists inspired by the chateau were Francois Rabelais and Gustave Flaubert. Besides the artwork, visitors get scenic views of the Loire River from the rooftop.
When you get a chance to travel to France, enjoy the benefits of heritage tourism. It is a travel experience that many appreciate.
