Ramparts, a monumental 14th-century wooden gate, 13th-century houses, Renaissance manors, and 17th-century mansions… here’s a brief glimpse of what this village in the Roannais region—with its exceptional architecture—has to offer. If you don’t want to settle for just this admittedly enticing preview, all you have to do is read on and head to Saint-Haon-le-Châtel!
Saint-Haon-le-Châtel, a charming village with a thousand-year history
Here is a village unlike any other. For starters, its name, which includes the word “châtel,” hints at its first distinctive feature. For while Saint-Haon-le-Châtel does not have a castle in the strict sense of the word, that’s because the entire village was, in fact, the castle itself. Incredible! Its rich architectural heritage allows us to immerse ourselves in history across the centuries, with buildings from every era. The Romanesque church, the Fleur de Lys manor house, and the sundial house are must-see stops on a stroll through the village. Don’t miss the hilltop, where you can enjoya breathtaking view of the surrounding area.
We learn that in the 14th century, the village was home to no fewer than 2,000 people, making it one of—if not the— strongest stronghold in the Forez region, surpassing towns like Charlieu or even Roanne! Paradoxically, the town today covers a tiny area of just 87 hectares, making it the smallest town in the Loire department. Saint-Haon-le-Châtel… but how do you pronounce “Haon” correctly without sounding like a fool? Well, just like the word “faon” (without pronouncing the “o”). Now you’ll be able to strut your stuff!
The Roannais: A Land of History and Stories
If you’re into the Middle Ages, the Roannais region is a true treasure trove. Within an area no larger than the Lyon metropolitan area, you’ll find a whole host of hidden gems. Ambierle, located just a stone’s throw from Saint-Haon-le-Châtel, will enchant you with its abbey, one of the oldest in the region. Its splendid church was among the first buildings in France to be designated as historic monuments as early as 1840.
You can also head to the village with the picturesque name of Saint-Jean-Saint-Maurice-sur-Loire, which —aside from arguably having the name with the most hyphens in France—also boasts a magnificent heritage dating back a thousand years. Finally, head to Pommiers-en-Forez, another “postcard-perfect” village, home to an imposing 11th-century Benedictine priory where Kings Francis I and Charles VII once stayed—which says it all…
