Travel Guide Saint-Gengoux-Le-National

Saint-Gengoux-le-National is a charming medieval town that grew from 1166, the date of the treaty of pariage between the king of France, Louis VII, and the abbot of Cluny. It allowed the original village to be transformed into a fortified city, increasing the security of the region. From then on, the economic life could easily develop thanks to the installation of many craftsmen and tradesmen. For almost 600 years, the town was called Saint-Gengoux-le-Royal. Today, visitors who enter the heart of Saint-Gengoux-le-National, the medieval city, find themselves in another era. Indeed, there are still a lot of houses that are witnesses of the 13th century and the following centuries. You can also admire the church, whose octagonal tower dates from 1120, and which is accompanied by an original "Clock Tower". The dungeon, a remnant of the old castle, is also still present.The "medieval" image is attractive, but it is not the only one, as vineyards and wine have long held an important place here. Visitors will be kindly received at the cooperative cellar to taste and buy excellent Burgundies, including the Mâcon Saint-Gengoux. The town has all the shops and facilities for a pleasant stay. The well documented tourist information office will help you discover many sites. The guided tour of the medieval city is an institution that is always very successful. Saint-Gengoux-le-National welcomes its visitors with pleasure.By Gérard Mignot, vice-president of the Society of Historical and Natural Studies of the Grosne and Guye region.