History of the city of Beaune and its surroundings
Overview
Beaune is a French city located in the Cote d'Or department in the Burgundy region. Covering an area of approximately 31 km2, the city sits at an altitude of 220 meters. The closest villages include Chorey-les-Beaune, Vignoles, and Levernois. The inhabitants of Beaune, known as Beaunois and Beaunoises, number around 24,000 according to the latest census. The postal code for Beaune is 21200.
Historical Significance
Renowned for its unique architectural wealth and distinctive historical past, Beaune is considered one of the top tourist attractions in Burgundy. The city's initial settlement dates back thousands of years, but it wasn't until the climate softened around 7000 BC that humans began to settle down, cultivating land and developing new craft techniques. Around the same time as the foundation of Marseille by the Greeks, Beaune made its mark in history and has featured on the map of France since the era of Celtic Gaul.
Roman Influence
Under the Roman era, the army set the course for the city's history by erecting the first fortifications. They made the city a key point to control and protect two important routes of the Empire in this region: the first connecting Lyon to Trier and the other from Besançon to Autun.
Economic Importance in the Middle Ages
Thanks to the wine trade, Beaune played a key role in the economic and political sector of France during the 13th century. Also, Eude III, the Duke of Burgundy, gave it a privileged status by making it a free city modeled on Dijon. The Charter of Franchise granted the Beaunois certain rights and privileges not found in other medieval populations.
Religious Significance
The presence of several abbeys, convents, and churches adorning various districts attests to the importance of religious life. Some of these religious monuments still exist in the city and attract thousands of visitors each year thanks to their unique architectural style.
Modern City Structure
With its economic development, the city is currently organized around three distinct poles: the Market Place, Carnot Square, and the Notre-Dame district. The parish church is located in Carnot Square, while the old lodgings of the Dukes of Burgundy are located in the Notre-Dame district.
Places of interest to visit in the region of Beaune
The Côte de Beaune
Recognized as the wine capital of Burgundy, Beaune is renowned for producing some of the finest wines in France. During your stay, don't miss a visit to the Côte de Beaune, a region spanning over five thousand hectares known for the best red wines in the region. Expect to encounter vineyards as far as the eye can see, engage with the country's top producers, and partake in tastings – all this and more await you in this part of the region.
Hospices de Beaune
Founded in the 15th century by the Duke of Burgundy, Nicolas Rolin, the Hospices de Beaune is an exquisite display of flamboyant Gothic architecture. As one of the most famous vineyards in France, the Hospices de Beaune regularly organizes auctions where winemakers sell their finest wines to fund the institution. Designated as a historic monument in 1862, the estate now operates as a museum and a well-known exhibition venue in the region.
The Burgundy Wine Museum
An essential stop for tourists in Beaune is the Burgundy Wine Museum, also known as the Hôtel des Ducs de Bourgogne. Built in the 16th century, this palace-turned-museum distinguishes itself with a wide array of wine products on display.
Tourist hotels in the city of Beaune
Ibis Hotel
Nestled in the city center of Beaune, the Ibis Hotel is just a six-minute stroll away from the renowned Hospices museum. As a three-star establishment, it offers a tranquil and friendly atmosphere. With well-furnished rooms, a whirlpool, a swimming pool, and complimentary Wi-Fi, it ensures all the elements for a pleasant stay. Additionally, a dedicated staff is always on hand to cater to your needs.
Najeti Hotel Post Office
Situated on Clemenceau Boulevard, this hotel complex is a mere five-minute walk from the Burgundy Wine Museum. The unique feature of this establishment is the individual separation of each suite, ensuring privacy and tranquility. Guests have access to a gourmet restaurant, a sprawling garden, a billiard room, free Wi-Fi, and parking. The vibrant atmosphere is sure to enhance your stay.
Logis Belle Epoque Hotel
Occupying a former wine merchant's house, the Logis Hotel Belle Epoque is located in the Faubourg Bretonnière district. The hotel is pet-friendly and has amenities suitable for guests with disabilities. Comfortable rooms featuring spacious beds, along with a delightful breakfast, are the highlights of this hotel, consistently praised by visitors.
Adélie Hotel
This charming hotel is positioned just two kilometers from the city center. It is an ideal choice for family travelers, offering various stay options according to the needs of the guests. From a heated pool to a children's play area and a host of other recreational and entertainment activities, the Adélie Hotel promises an unforgettable holiday experience in the region.
Discover the Wine Market Boutique in Beaune
Tucked away in the medieval town of Beaune, the Wine Market stands as an exceptional destination, a must-visit for every traveler. This wine capital magnetizes increasing numbers of visitors each year, thanks to its celebrated boutique, Marché aux Vins.
Overview
Situated in the heart of Burgundy, within the framework of the old Cordeliers Church, a structure erected between the 13th and 15th centuries, the Wine Market is not just a popular landmark, but a quintessential stop for anyone touring the region. Initiated in the 15th century by Nicolas Rolin, it has since become a symbol of both the city and the illustrious wines of Burgundy. Whether you wish to indulge in a visit or sample some of the finest wines, the historic church is open daily to welcome visitors.
What to Explore at the Wine Market?
Whether you're with family or friends, a guided tour of the Wine Market promises a captivating experience. Begin your exploration in the basement of the old church, where you'll discover the authentic history of the Wine Market in its cellars. These cellars are home to over 20,000 bottles of wine, making it the first place to savor the tantalizing aromas and kick off your wine tasting experience with a choice of 4 to 11 wines, starting at €10. Whether you're a novice or a connoisseur, it's customary in Burgundy to begin your tasting with red wines.
Continue your journey at the Market by immersing yourself in various exhibitions of medieval art and a unique collection of vintage wines dating back over 40 years. Here, you'll encounter wines from the Hospices de Beaune and those from the Hospices de Nuits Saint Georges.
Conclude your visit in style by stepping into the Cellar de Gourmet. This shop features a broad assortment of wines, champagnes, and gourmet products that the Wine Market has carefully curated for sale. In this shopping space, you can taste and purchase quality products among the greatest wines of Burgundy.
Discover the Fallot Mustard Factory
If you're passing through Beaune, don't miss out on a trip to the Fallot Mustard Factory. Established in 1840, it's not only a crucial historical site in the region, but it's also the only place where you can learn about the history of this quintessential French condiment.
A Traditional Family Business
The Fallot Mustard Factory in Beaune is a traditional family business. It has always been so, and it remains as such today. A visit feels like a trip back in time, as the place has retained its old-world charm. This provides you with an opportunity to learn more about the making of mustard and its various condiments.
A Mustard Museum
Even today, the Fallot Mustard Factory maintains traditional techniques for the creation of its products, contributing to their exceptional quality and flavor. This fidelity to tradition is also what attracts tourists from all corners of the globe. It is a veritable mustard museum, where you'll find an exhibition of the different tools and materials used in the production of mustard. Additionally, there's a display showcasing the specific techniques employed by the company.
An Experience for All Ages
The tour of the Fallot Mustard Factory is an adventure for both young and old. The visit is made entertaining with an array of sounds and lights that guarantee an immersive experience for everyone. Not only will you uncover the history of mustard, but you'll also have the opportunity to taste it - a perfect treat for food lovers.
Private car service from Paris to Beaune
Several highways connect the city of Beaune to its peripheral regions. The city is connected to Dijon, Nancy by the A6 motorway. In addition, if you come from Basel or Besançon and want to reach the town, you must take the A38 motorway. SNCF networks and airports also allow you to easily visit the department if you come from other French regions. Beaune is three hours from Paris CDG airport by private car .
To go around the city, you can travel by taxi, bike, or make your life easier by hiring a chauffeured car with driver . To move between the typical villages, the vineyards, there is for example the road from Beaune to Santenay, which will take you directly to the green Santenay Nolay. By cons, the bike is the safest way to move in the city center and enjoy the panoramic view offered by the various monuments there.
