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The medieval and Renaissance town of Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise features a rich architectural and historical heritage with its narrow, cobblestoned streets, old shops, superb 12th & 16th-century residences and a belfry classified as a historical monument.
Linked to the history of France and its royalty (influence of Queen Margot), the town remained for a long time one of the strongholds of the Medici family.
Built on a lava flow, at an altitude of 1,050m, this picturesque, lively village has an authentic charm in a unique natural setting.
Today, a friendly, festive spirit provides the backdrop to all seasons.

To the site of Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise

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Sub-prefecture town of the Haute-Loire with a population of 7,223, Brioude features an impressive architectural heritage that testifies to a rich historical past. As an illustration, Saint-Julien’s basilica, Auvergne’s largest Romanesque church and highspot of an old pilgrimage route. Other tourist attractions include the Lacework Museum and the Salmon & River Centre.
The main town in a rural area with a population of 45,000 in the south of the Auvergne, today an administrative and shopping centre, Brioude has a tightly-woven fabric of SMBs mainly specialised in automotive subcontracting and agroindustry.
Situated at an altitude of 427 metres, bordered by foothills and close to the Allier river, the town is surrounded by varied landscapes which will delight those fond of nature and sport. European cradle of the Enduro, Brioude and its region provide an ideal setting for other 2-wheeler sports such as cycling.

To the site of Brioude

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