Beaugency is a small town of 7,500 inhabitants on the banks of the Loire, about 30 km north of Blois and 40 km south of Orléans. The 400-metre long bridge, which dates back to the 12th century, has 23 arches and is said to be the oldest over the Loire. Beaugency is a pretty little town with cobblestones, a Renaissance town hall built in the 16th century, a castle, an abbey church and an 11th century church. It’s certainly worth a detour!
A very impressive bridge, and I really like the character of the town.
I’ve now driven, walked and cycled across it several times.
Typo alert: Joan would have been long dead in 1439. The battle of Beaugency would have been 1429.
We’ve never made it to Beaugency. I’d like to go there one day. It is also where the American Airforce General Macon took the surrender of 20 000 German troops who had been corralled there by the Resistance at the end of the Second World War.
Thanks, Susan. I’ve fixed it up :).
I didn’t know about General Macon. Apparently you can visit the inside of the town hall, which we didn’t know about. Next time!
A fascinating town and history.
I particularly loved the arched bridge and and am very impressed with the entrance to the college.
The college had a stunning bignonia inside as well.
Had to look up bignonia. Not one I have seen but I can imagine it would be stunning.
It’s also called trompette de jéricho in French – Jericho trumpet. Very popular here.
What an unexpected little place. Something to add to my list when in Tourraine.
Touraine has endless places to visit!
What is so nice about the bridge is that no-one has seen fit to put awful high railings on the stonework.
I agree wholeheartedly.