Founded in 990, the town of Moulins takes its name from the many mills which once lined the Allier, France. In the 14th century it became the chief town of the district of Bourbonnais, which was raised to the status of a duchy. Today the city which grew up in the 10th century around a castle is brimming with signs of the times of the Dukes, a heritage for you to discover with the town’s guide-lecturers.

Wander through the cobbled streets of the historical quarter where timber-framed houses rub shoulders with hotels and grand period property. In the center of the picturesque old part of the town is the Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville, in which is the Belfry (1455), with a remarkable jacquemart (“Jack-o’-the-clock”, a clock with animated figures).  The major tourist attraction is the Moulins Cathedral, located in the heart  of the city. The cathedral contains two distinct building phases constructed four centuries apart. The collegiate church was constructed in the Flamboyant style at the end of the 15th century. It was made a cathedral in 1822. To this a neo-Gothic nave, designed by the architects Lassus and Millet, was added at the end of the 19th century.

The Musée de Folklore et du Vieux Moulins displays old craftsmen’s tools, a model of a peasant’s house, traditional costumes and furniture. Discover the Chapelle de la Visitation with its recently restored remarkable ceilings. In other words, Moulins has countless delights just waiting to be discovered.

  

Similar Posts:

• In the Colombian coffee region
• 101 places to go – Stonehenge
• Picasso, Son of Malaga
• Top 5 Sights in Budapest
• Hard Rock Hotel Atlantic City expects to open in spring 2014