Semur-en-Auxois

About Semur-en-Auxois

The town is situated on a hillside with steep banks that descend to the meandering River Armançon, which almost encircles it. The view of the ramparts and towers is stunning.

History of Semur-en-Auxois

Semur-en-Auxois's history extends back to the Roman era. The town is renowned for its spectacular ramparts and towers, which once protected it, as well as its well-preserved medieval architecture. There are mentions of a settlement on the hill dating back to 606 A.D. Slowly, the town developed into an important trading place, well defended. In the 14th century, the Burgundy Dukes reinforced Semur's walls, and a Dungeon and a Keep were built.

With the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame built in 1123, the nearby abbeys of Flavigny and Fontenay, religious activity was intense in the town. 

Several famous figures were born or educated in Semur, including the military engineer Vauban, who later restored the beautiful Château Bazoches some 60 kilometres to the west.

Places to visit in Semur-en-Auxois

• Château de Semur-en-Auxois (the dungeon)
• Church of Notre-Dame
• Le Pont Pinard
• Museum of Semur-en-Auxois
• Cobbled streets and half-timbered houses

Events in Semur-en-Auxois

The medieval market and festival is generally held in May

The foot race called the "Course des Chausses", with a history dating back to 1566, is run in a straight line over a distance of 2112 metres. This race follows the now famous "Course de la Bague", a horse race covering the same distance and ground, it dates back to 1639. Both races are still run today.