Aubenas

Capital of the southern Ardeche perched on a rocky outcrop, Aubenas offers a beautiful view of the valley of the Ardeche. City of History prestigious past, Aubenas reveals architectural treasures and a rich heritage.

Castle of Aubenas

The Castle, historical monument from 1943, is considered the finest example of civil architecture of the Ardeche. Its construction began in the 12th century with the dungeon, then it is shaped by its owners that change according to the architectural inspirations of their respective eras. You will discover the mullioned windows, spiral staircase, turrets, glazed tiles roof …

Historic city

St Benoit Dome, gem of religious architecture, listed building, features a hexagonal structure and a 18th century drum dome of Italian Renaissance style. It houses collections of religious art and the mausoleum of the Marshal d'Ornano . La Chapelle des Cordeliers is a former chapel of the Franciscans. You can see an exhibition of vestments, paintings and religious sculptures of the 17th century evoking the activity of the Cordeliers monks.

The Church of St. Laurent, firstly Church of St. Dominique in the 13th century, was partly destroyed during the religious wars and rebuilt in 1612 under the order of Marie de Medicis. If the facade is fairly recent (19th century), the Chapel of the Martyrs and Unity, it dates from the 15th century and the woodwork from the 18th century.

Its Fountains

When visiting the Old Centre, you will discover the daily life of the inhabitants of the city, as well as the fountains.

For a long time, Aubenas was called: "The city without water." Perched high on a hill, it could not be doused with no water. In the 19th century, the Mayor Jean Mathon did perform work, titanic for the time, bringing water from a source tapped at Antraigues (14 kms). On June 23, 1863, a big celebration inaugurated the 50 fountains built in the city (today only a few still exist) and all together, will be "spiting" water at 7pm in the jubilation. The festivities last for a whole month!

Terroir and specialities of Aubenas

Who has ever heard (and tasted!) about the famous Ardèche chestnut cream? This delicious sweet cream is well represented in Aubenas by confectioners Sabaton and Imbert. You will also find many local products in shops of the old town or by lounging on the always lively and colorful weekly market: a culinary discovery in a warm atmosphere between lights and local scents.