Le coeur de Troyes / visites

LE BOUCHON DE CHAMPAGNE

The historic city centre of Troyes is commonly known as the "Champagne Cork" because, as you can see on the map, its distinctive outline resembles the shape of a champagne cork.

The apartment and the studio are located right in the heart of this historic district, within easy walking distance of all the city's museums and main points of interest.

At the entrance to the apartment and the studio, you will find brochures about the city's monuments and attractions, as well as maps of Troyes and the surrounding area to help you make the most of your stay.

The Tourist Office is located on the square directly opposite the apartments and will be happy to provide any additional information you may need. Guided tours of the city are also available.

For more information, please visit: https://www.tourisme-troyes.com

Download the Official Troyes Tourist Office Map

We have specially designed a comprehensive self-guided tour for you, complete with a dedicated mobile app.

Visit Troyes – App Guide & Download

Visit Troyes - Places of Interest to Visit

Explore the Surroundings of Troyes

VISIT TROYES - The app

The Tourist Guide App - Le coeur de Troyes

Make the Most of Your Stay

To help you get the most out of your visit, we provide a free self-guided tour app for Troyes, which you can use directly on your smartphone.

📲 How to Install the App

Simply click on this link : Download application —it opens directly in your web browser, so there's no need to visit the App Store or Google Play Store.

On iPhone (Safari):
Tap the Share button (the square with the upward arrow at the bottom of the screen), then select "Add to Home Screen", and finally tap "Add."

On Android (Chrome):
A banner saying "Add to Home Screen" should appear automatically. Simply tap it to install the app.

The app will then appear as an icon on your home screen, just like any app downloaded from an app store.

🔌 Offline or Online? Choose When You First Open the App

The first time you launch the app, you'll be asked to choose between two modes:

📴 Offline Mode (Recommended)

The complete app—including all texts and maps—is downloaded to your phone just once.

After that, you can explore Troyes without using mobile data, even if your 4G/5G connection is turned off.

We highly recommend this option, especially if your mobile data plan is limited or if you want to avoid areas with weaker network coverage in the narrow streets of the historic centre.

📶 Online Mode

The app is quicker to install because it downloads less content initially.

However, it requires an active internet connection (mobile data or Wi-Fi) to load maps during your visit.

🗺️ Using the App

Visit Troyes

Follow a self-guided walking tour featuring around 40 points of interest, including monuments, sculptures, half-timbered houses, gardens and more.

Simply tap any location on the interactive map to open its detailed description.

Half-Timbered Houses

A dedicated section explains the history and architecture of Troyes' famous timber-framed buildings.

Stories of Troyes

Discover a series of short themed articles covering subjects such as:

The Tricasses
The Counts of Champagne
The Champagne Fairs
The Knights Templar
Great Fires and Floods
Religious monuments

These stories provide a deeper understanding of the city's fascinating history.

🔊 Listen Instead of Reading

Every point of interest includes a "Listen" button.

Tap it to hear the description read aloud automatically, allowing you to enjoy the commentary hands-free while walking or admiring the monument.

A "Stop" button lets you pause the audio at any time.

📍 Get Directions (Google Maps Button)

Each description also includes a Google Maps button.

Tap it to launch walking directions from your current location to the selected point of interest.

Please note: Google Maps requires an active internet connection (mobile data or Wi-Fi), even if you are using the app in Offline Mode.

If you wish to use this feature, simply enable your mobile data or connect to a nearby Wi-Fi network.

🌍 Available Languages

The app is available in:

French
English
Dutch
German
Spanish

The language selector is located at the top of the home screen.

💡 Our Recommendation

For the best experience, install the app in Offline Mode before setting out—ideally while you're still connected to the apartment's Wi-Fi.

This way, you'll be able to read every description and listen to every audio guide without using any mobile data. You can then switch your mobile data on only when needed, for example if you'd like Google Maps to guide you to a particular location.

Enjoy discovering Troyes!

VISIT TROYES - Points Of Interest

1. Basilique Saint-Urbain - 2. Place de la Libération - 3. Sculpture« Lili ou la Dame au Chapeau » - 4. Hôtel Dieu le Comtes - Citée du vitraille et apothicairerie. - 5. Sculpture « La Ribambelle Joyeuse » - 6A. Maison de Rhôdes - 6B Maison "Le Champs des Oiseaux" - 7 Musée d’Art Moderne - 8. Cellier Saint-Pierre - 9. Cathédrale Saint-Pierre Saint-Paul - 10. Eglise Saint-Nizier - 11. Maison du Dauphin - 12. Musée Saint-Loup (Musée des Beaux-Arts, Archéologie & Histoire Naturelle) - 13. Hôtel Dieu Le Comte et jardin des plantes - 14 Sculpture « Attendez-moi » - 15. Sculpture la Jeune Fille qui donne un Baiser - 16. Sculpture « Le Cœur de Troyes » - 17. Les Maison de la rue Passerat - 18. Le Théâtre de Champagne - 19. Eglise et place Saint-Rémy - 20. Le Marché des Halles - 21. Sculpture « La Feuille de Troyes » - 22. Hôtel de Ville - 23. Maison du tourisme et rue Champeaux - 24. Tourelle de l’Orfèvre - 25. Eglise Saint-Jean - 26. Hôtel Juvénal des Ursins - 27. Ruelle des Chats - 28. Court du Mortier d’Or - 29. Jardin Juvénal des Ursins - 30. Jardin des innocents - 31. Eglise Sainte Madeleine - 32. Jardin du Rocher - 33. Jardin de la Vallée Suisse - 34. Maison rue de la Corne au Cerf - 35. Street Art - 36. Synagogue et Maison Rachi - 37. Eglise Saint-Nicolas - 38. Bourse du travail - 39. Scuplture "Le Pélerin" - 40. Hôtel du Vauluisant - 41. Eglise Pantaléon - 42. Maison de l’outil et de la pensée ouvrière - 43. Sculpture "Le Souffle de vie" - 44. Les Pans de Bois de la rue Emile Zola

Légendes

1. Basilique Saint-Urbain

📍 Place Vernier, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Tue–Sat: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. & 2:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. • Sun: 2:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. • Closed Mondays

Construction of the church began in 1262 at the request of Pope Urban IV (Jacques Pantaléon, a native of Troyes), on the site of his father's shoemaker's workshop, where the future pope himself was born. It was consecrated in 1389, although it remained unfinished for many years. Often nicknamed the "Parthenon of Champagne," it is one of the city's architectural masterpieces.

A superb example of Rayonnant Gothic* architecture, the church has an exceptionally light and elegant design, giving it the appearance of a vast glass cage. Its remarkable 13th-century stained-glass windows make extensive use of grisaille (a monochrome painting technique on clear glass), allowing soft natural light to flood the interior with remarkable elegance.

Anecdote

In 1266, Ode of Pougy, abbess of the powerful Abbey of Notre-Dame-aux-Nonnains, ordered the construction site to be ransacked in an attempt to halt the project. Doors were torn from their hinges, the altar was overturned, and the scaffolding was destroyed.

Because the church answered directly to the Pope rather than to the local abbey, it threatened the abbess's long-established privileges. In retaliation, Pope Clement IV excommunicated her on 15 July 1268. The sentence was not lifted until 1283, under Pope Martin IV.

* Rayonnant Gothic: a phase of Gothic architecture that flourished during the 13th and 14th centuries, characterised by vast windows with intricate radiating tracery, walls reduced to a minimum in favour of glass, highly developed flying buttresses, and interiors filled with light, creating a powerful impression of elegance, height and heavenly luminosity.

3. Sculpture « Lili ou la Dame au Chapeau »

📍 Quai Dampierre, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Open access at all times

This contemporary bronze sculpture, created by Hungarian artist András Lapis, was installed on the Quai Dampierre waterfront in 2012.

It depicts an elegant woman seated on a bench, reading an open book that tells the story of the Counts of Champagne.

It has become one of the most photographed landmarks in Troyes. Visitors naturally sit beside her on the bench, often placing an arm around her shoulders for a memorable photo.

4. Hôtel-Dieu-le-Comte – Cité du Vitrail

📍 31 Quai des Comtes de Champagne, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Tue–Sun: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. & 2:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. • Closed Mondays

Originally the city's main hospital from the Middle Ages until the 20th century, the Hôtel-Dieu-le-Comte was rebuilt in the 18th century. Today it is home to the Cité du Vitrail (City of Stained Glass), a 3,000 m² museum inaugurated in late 2022, as well as its remarkable historic apothecary.

Welcome to one of the few museums in France entirely dedicated to the art of stained glass. Opened in 2022, the Cité du Vitrail occupies the historic buildings of the Hôtel-Dieu-le-Comte, a hospital founded in the 12th century by the Counts of Champagne.

Its mission is simple: to allow visitors to admire stained-glass windows at eye level—something that is rarely possible in churches, where they are usually installed high above the ground.

Before beginning your visit, it's worth knowing that the Aube department is home to the largest collection of historic stained glass in France. More than 9,000 square metres (97,000 sq ft) of stained-glass windows are preserved in churches throughout the region, spanning nearly eight centuries of history. Thanks to the extraordinary richness of its religious heritage, Troyes is considered one of Europe's great capitals of stained glass.

As you explore the galleries, you'll discover the evolution of stained glass from the Middle Ages to the present day. The works are displayed in chronological order, making it easy to follow the development of techniques, colours and artistic styles over the centuries. Unlike in churches, the windows here are presented directly in front of you, allowing every detail to be appreciated as if you were viewing a painting.

How Is a Stained-Glass Window Made?

The process begins with a full-scale drawing known as a cartoon. Using this template, the master glassmaker carefully cuts each piece of coloured glass.

Fine details—such as faces, hands and folds in clothing—are painted using a special pigment called grisaille, before being fired in a kiln to permanently fix the paint to the glass.

Finally, each piece is assembled using strips of lead, creating the finished design.

This remarkable craft has changed very little since the Middle Ages and requires exceptional precision, patience and skill.

Among the museum's greatest treasures is an exceptional Romanesque stained-glass panel dating from around 1170–1180. It is considered one of the very few surviving stained-glass windows from this period anywhere in the world. Long dispersed, its fragments were eventually acquired and reunited, allowing this masterpiece to return to Troyes several centuries after its creation.

As you continue through the exhibition, you'll notice that stained glass served far more than a decorative purpose. During the Middle Ages, it functioned as a true "picture book." Since most people were unable to read or write, the colourful scenes illustrated stories from the Bible, the lives of saints and scenes from everyday life and local trades. Sunlight shining through the coloured glass created a powerful spiritual atmosphere that deeply impressed medieval worshippers.

Stained glass remains a living art today. Alongside historic masterpieces, the museum also showcases contemporary works by modern artists and master glassmakers, demonstrating how this centuries-old tradition continues to evolve through new techniques, colours and creative approaches.

Before leaving, take a moment to observe how the changing daylight transforms each work of art. Unlike a painting, a stained-glass window is never exactly the same twice—it changes with the light. That, perhaps, is the enduring magic of this extraordinary art form, nearly a thousand years after its beginnings.

4. Hôtel-Dieu-le-Comte – Apothicairerie

📍 31 Quai des Comtes de Champagne, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Tue–Sun: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. & 2:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. • Closed Mondays

The city's main hospital from the Middle Ages until the 20th century.

Rebuilt in the 18th century, it now houses the Cité du Vitrail (City of Stained Glass), a 3,000 m² museum inaugurated in late 2022, as well as its beautifully preserved historic Apothecary.

The apothecary has remained virtually unchanged since the 18th century, with its 319 painted wooden medicine boxes (known as silènes) still containing many of the medicinal plants and ingredients once used by pharmacists.

The Historic Apothecary

You are standing in one of the finest and best-preserved historic apothecaries in France. Its elegant 18th-century interior has survived almost intact. This remarkable room once served as the pharmacy of the Hôtel-Dieu-le-Comte, a hospital founded in the 12th century by Henry I, Count of Champagne, to care for the sick, welcome travellers, assist the poor and shelter pilgrims.

The apothecary you see today was fitted out around 1725, during the reconstruction of the hospital. It remained in operation until 1962, providing an exceptional record of more than two centuries of pharmaceutical practice. Since 1976, it has been open to the public and has been awarded the prestigious "Musée de France" designation.

Take a moment to look up at the magnificent wooden shelving that lines the walls. It displays hundreds of faience jars, elegant pouring vessels known as chevrettes, pill jars and the distinctive painted wooden boxes called silènes.

Each container held ingredients used to prepare medicines. Some stored medicinal herbs, others contained spices imported from the East, minerals or animal-derived substances. At the time, medicine combined scientific knowledge with traditional remedies and long-held beliefs. Some preparations included ingredients that may seem surprising today, such as mandrake root, bezoar stones, or even "unicorn horn"—which was, in fact, the tusk of a narwhal.

The adjoining room housed the laboratory, where apothecaries prepared medicines prescribed for patients. Remedies were handmade as powders, syrups, ointments and herbal decoctions, each carefully measured and mixed by hand.

Today, this area explains the work of the apothecary through a series of interactive displays that explore the history of pharmacy and the evolution of medical knowledge over the centuries.

The Apothecary now preserves more than 1,700 historical objects, around 1,500 of which are on display. This exceptional collection makes it a unique place where the histories of medicine, botany, the spice trade and scientific discovery all come together.

Before continuing your visit, take a moment to imagine the daily life of the apothecaries who worked here three centuries ago. In the quiet of these rooms, surrounded by the fragrance of dried herbs and precious ingredients gathered from across the world, they patiently prepared remedies intended to heal the people of Troyes.

More than simply an old pharmacy, this apothecary offers a fascinating journey through the history of medicine and one of France's most remarkable examples of pharmaceutical heritage.

5. Scuplture " La Ribambelle Joyeuse"

📍 Quai Dampierre, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Open at all times

This group of bronze sculptures, created by Belgian artist Tom Frantzen, was installed in 2018 near the Passerelle des Trévois.

The playful scene depicts children running alongside fantastical animals—including a penguin and a duck—in a whimsical style inspired by the worlds of Pieter Bruegel and Hieronymus Bosch, combined with Frantzen's distinctive Belgian sense of humour.

👀 Look Closely

Don't miss the hidden details! A small bronze dog is chasing after the group, while the children are pulling funny faces. The sculpture is full of charming and mischievous details waiting to be discovered.

6A. Hôtel de la maison de Rhodes

You are standing in one of the most iconic streets of historic Troyes. The buildings before you—La Maison de Rhodes and Le Champ des Oiseaux—perfectly illustrate the city's traditional architecture and the exceptional craftsmanship of the Renaissance period.

Take a moment to admire their façades. They were built using the half-timbered (or timber-framed) construction technique. The exposed wooden beams are not merely decorative—they form the structural framework of the buildings themselves. The spaces between the timbers were originally filled with wattle and daub, and later with bricks or chalk, materials that were abundant in the region.

You'll also notice the vibrant colours of the façades. Contrary to a long-held belief, medieval houses were not left with their timber exposed in its natural colour. Research has shown that the wooden frames were originally painted using brightly coloured pigments. During restoration work in the 1990s, Le Champ des Oiseaux was one of the first buildings in Troyes to regain its historic colours, soon followed by La Maison de Rhodes. Today, shades of ochre, green, blue and yellow once again bring the city's architectural heritage to life, reminding us that medieval towns were far more colourful than many people imagine.

La Maison de Rhodes takes its name from the Knights of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, better known as the Knights of Rhodes and later as the Knights of Malta. The foundations of the house date back to the 12th century, and over the centuries it has served as a canon's residence, a convent and, today, a charming boutique hotel.

The name Le Champ des Oiseaux ("The Birds' Field") is even older than it might seem. Historical records show that a house bearing this name already stood here in the 13th century, at a time when streets had neither names nor numbers. Instead, each house was identified by its own distinctive name.

Today, these two remarkable buildings have been transformed into characterful hotels, but above all they remain outstanding examples of Troyes' architectural heritage. They demonstrate the success of the city's historic restoration programme, which has preserved and enhanced hundreds of half-timbered houses throughout the old town.

As you look up, take time to admire the wealth of details: carved beams, overhanging upper storeys, elegant wrought-iron features and the colourful façades that make this one of the most photographed streets in Troyes.

6B. Hôtel le Champ des oiseaux

7. Musée d'Art Moderne

📍 14 Place Saint-Pierre, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Tue–Sun: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. & 2:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. • Closed Mondays

Housed in the former Bishop's Palace, built between the 16th and 17th centuries, this museum was created following the generous donation made in 1976 by Pierre and Denise Lévy, a couple of textile industrialists from Troyes.

The museum officially opened its doors in 1982.

Pierre Lévy was the head of the textile company Devanlay-Recoing, which grew into one of France's leading knitwear manufacturers and became internationally renowned for producing Lacoste clothing. Together with his wife Denise, who shared his passion for modern art, they assembled one of France's finest private collections.

Today, the museum is considered one of the most important collections of modern art outside Paris, covering the period 1850–1960. It features masterpieces by artists such as Pierre Bonnard, Georges Braque, Raoul Dufy, Amedeo Modigliani, André Derain, as well as the remarkable glass creations of Maurice Marinot, one of the greatest French glass artists of the 20th century.

Anecdote

Pierre Lévy believed that works of art should be lived with rather than locked away. Instead of keeping his paintings solely in his home, he hung genuine masterpieces in the cafeterias of his textile factories so that his employees could enjoy them every day.

8. Le Cellier Saint-Pierre

📍 3 Place Charles de Gaulle, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Mon–Sat: 9:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. & 2:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.

Located directly opposite the cathedral, this historic cellar and spirits shop is famous for producing Prunelle de Troyes, the city's signature liqueur.

Created in 1840, this distinctive spirit (40% ABV) is made from the stones of wild sloes (blackthorn berries). It is still distilled on site using a traditional copper still dating from 1856, preserving a centuries-old craft.

Anecdote

Prunelle de Troyes was awarded a Gold Medal at the 1900 Paris Universal Exposition. In the early 20th century, it was served as a prestigious after-dinner liqueur in many of Paris's finest restaurants.

To learn more about the history and production of Prunelle de Troyes, watch this short documentary:

▶ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPhBLUA561U

9. Cathédrale Saint-Pierre Saint-Paul

📍 Place Saint-Pierre, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Mon–Sat: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (until 7:00 p.m. in summer) • Sun: 2:00 p.m.–5:30 p.m.

Construction of the cathedral spanned four centuries (13th–17th centuries). Its distinctive façade is asymmetrical, with only one completed tower—the North Tower, known as the Saint Peter Tower, completed in 1634.

The cathedral has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1862 and is home to 1,500 m² (16,000 sq ft) of stained glass dating from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.

Key Historical Events

▸ May 1420 – The Treaty of Troyes

The Treaty of Troyes was signed here. It declared that King Henry V of England would succeed King Charles VI of France, bypassing the Dauphin, the future Charles VII.

▸ July 1429 – Joan of Arc

Joan of Arc secured the allegiance of Troyes—then under Burgundian control—allowing Charles VII to continue his journey to Reims, where he was crowned King of France.

History

The present Gothic cathedral was begun after the Great Fire of Troyes in 1188, which severely damaged the earlier Romanesque cathedral, itself built on the site of a 4th-century Early Christian church.

Construction started around 1200 under Bishop Garnier de Traînel, who sought to create a cathedral worthy of the diocese at a time when Troyes was flourishing as the capital of the famous Champagne Fairs.

A Templar Story

On 13 January 1129, a major church council was held on this site, bringing together bishops, abbots and Count Thibaut of Champagne.

During this council, the Order of the Temple, founded by the Champenois knight Hugues de Payns, received its official recognition from the Church. The council also approved the strict Rule that governed the life of the Knights Templar.

The Templars would go on to become one of the most powerful military, religious and financial orders in medieval Europe before being dissolved in 1314.

📖 To learn more, open the "Knights Templar" chapter in the "Stories of Troyes" section of the app.

10. Église Saint-Nizier

📍 Rue Général de Gaulle, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Tue–Sat: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. & 2:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. • Closed Mondays & Sundays

Built between 1528 and 1619, Saint-Nizier Church beautifully combines Flamboyant Gothic and Renaissance architecture. It stands on the site of an earlier sanctuary that has housed the relics of Saint Nizier, Bishop of Lyon, since 582.

Saint Nizier (c. 490–573) was born into an influential Gallo-Roman family. He became Bishop of Lyon around 552 and was renowned for his deep faith, his dedication to the poor and his courage in standing up to the Merovingian kings. His tomb in Lyon became an important pilgrimage destination during the Middle Ages, and many churches throughout France were dedicated to him.

Look up to admire the church's striking glazed polychrome tile roof, a tradition inherited from neighbouring Burgundy, where this colourful style of roofing became a distinctive architectural feature.

Inside, don't miss the magnificent 16th-century Pietà, a masterpiece of religious sculpture celebrated for its remarkable realism and emotional power.

A Local Mystery

For centuries, local legends have claimed that a network of secret underground tunnels extends beneath the church, linking it to Troyes' former medieval fortifications. Although no definitive evidence has ever confirmed their existence, the story continues to fascinate visitors and residents alike.

11. Maison du Dauphin

📍 3 Rue Kléber, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Exterior accessible at all times

This beautiful 16th-century half-timbered house features overhanging upper storeys (jettying) and mullioned windows richly decorated with Renaissance carvings.

It stands on the corner of Rue de la Trinité and Rue Kléber.

The house probably dates back to 1472, a date discovered carved into one of its fireplaces. It remarkably survived the Great Fire of Troyes in 1524, making it one of the oldest surviving timber-framed houses in the city. It has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1995.

The building was carefully restored in 2004, and since 2024 it has been owned by the City of Troyes.

Its name, Maison du Dauphin ("House of the Dauphin"), comes from a carved wooden sign depicting a dolphin, the traditional emblem of the Dauphin of France, the heir to the French throne. According to local tradition, the cloth merchant who once lived here either supplied the royal household or welcomed the Dauphin during the famous Champagne Fairs.

🏷️ Anecdote

During the Middle Ages, houses were not numbered. Instead, they were identified by their signboards, the name of their owner or a distinctive architectural feature. The Maison du Dauphin therefore took its name from the carved dolphin displayed on its façade or hanging sign, making it easy for residents and visitors to identify.

12. Musée Saint-Loup

📍 1 Rue Chrétien de Troyes, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Tue–Sun: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. & 2:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. • Closed Mondays

The Museum of Fine Arts and Archaeology is Troyes' principal art museum. It is housed in the former Abbey of Saint-Loup, originally founded during the Middle Ages and rebuilt in the 17th and 18th centuries, just a short walk from the cathedral.

The museum was established in the aftermath of the French Revolution, when numerous works of art and religious treasures were rescued from destruction and brought together in public collections. It was officially organised in 1833 by the Société Académique de l'Aube, becoming Troyes' first major museum.

Its collections span several millennia and include:

Fine art from the 14th to the 19th century;
Medieval sculptures from the churches of Troyes;
Archaeological collections ranging from Prehistory to the Gallo-Roman period;
An extensive Natural History Museum.

Among its highlights are paintings by renowned masters such as Peter Paul Rubens, Antoine Watteau, François Boucher, and Jean-Honoré Fragonard.

🏷️ Anecdote

One of the museum's most remarkable treasures is the Treasure of Pouan, discovered in 1842. This exceptional burial assemblage includes weapons and magnificent gold jewellery inlaid with deep red garnets and dates from around AD 480.

It almost certainly belonged to a powerful barbarian chieftain. During the 19th century, some historians believed it to be the burial of the Visigothic King Theodoric I, who was killed in 451 at the Battle of the Catalaunian Plains while fighting Attila the Hun. Modern dating, however, shows that the objects were made several decades later, making this identification impossible.

13. Hôtel-Dieu-le-Comte & Jardin des plantes médicinales

📍 Quai des Comtes de Champagne, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Tue–Sun: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. & 2:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. • Closed Mondays

The Hôtel-Dieu-le-Comte is one of Troyes' most emblematic historic landmarks. Its history dates back to the 12th century, when the Counts of Champagne founded a hospital to care for the sick, welcome travellers and provide shelter for the poor.

For several centuries, it played a central role in the city's social and medical life.

The building you see today was largely rebuilt during the 18th century. Its elegant Classical architecture contrasts strikingly with the half-timbered houses of the historic centre.

Beyond its magnificent wrought-iron gates—a masterpiece of ironwork craftsmanship—a spacious courtyard reflects the prestige of this former hospital.

Sheltered from the bustle of the city, the medicinal herb garden is one of the most peaceful parts of the site. Inspired by the traditional physic gardens found in medieval monasteries and hospitals, it contains numerous plants that were used for centuries for their healing properties, long before the advent of modern medicine.

As you stroll through the garden, you'll discover a wide variety of medicinal, aromatic and culinary herbs, illustrating the botanical knowledge of the Middle Ages and the early modern period.

Today, the Hôtel-Dieu-le-Comte is home to the Cité du Vitrail (City of Stained Glass) and the beautifully preserved historic Apothecary. Together, they offer a fascinating journey through the history of Troyes, where architecture, medicine, botany and the art of stained glass come together in one remarkable setting.

14. Sculpture « Attendez-moi » & quai Dampierre

As you stroll along the quays, you'll come across this charming bronze sculpture entitled "Wait for Me", created by Belgian artist Tom Frantzen and installed in Troyes in 2018.

The sculpture depicts a young dog eagerly running after a flock of birds taking flight. It captures a joyful and spontaneous moment, as if the playful puppy is hoping to join the birds on their journey.

Tom Frantzen is renowned for his expressive sculptures, which seem almost to come alive with movement. Here, despite being cast in bronze, the animals appear remarkably lifelike, bringing a sense of energy and light-heartedness to the riverside setting.

The birds also evoke the great seasonal migrations that pass through the Aube region each year. Famous for its rich wildlife, the department provides the artist with a natural link between the sculpture, the surrounding landscape and the heritage of Troyes.

This work is part of a contemporary art trail that runs through the historic centre of Troyes, inviting visitors to slow down, notice the small details and enjoy this delightful scene, which blends perfectly into its surroundings.

Quai Dampierre

Quai Dampierre is one of the most emblematic places in the historic centre of Troyes. Running alongside the former Upper Seine Canal, it marks the boundary between the "head" and the "body" of the famous Champagne Cork—the distinctive shape of the city's historic centre.

The history of the quay dates back to the early 19th century, when Napoleon I launched the ambitious project of the Upper Seine Canal. The aim was to connect the River Seine with the Burgundy Canal, making it easier to transport goods and boosting the economy of Troyes.

However, construction progressed slowly and was soon overtaken by the rapid development of the railway. Part of the canal was never completed and became locally known as the "canal without water."

During the 20th century, the area was gradually redesigned to accommodate road traffic. Sections of the canal were covered over, and the water was diverted into underground conduits.

Beginning in 2012, the City of Troyes undertook a major redevelopment of the quays, restoring the importance of the waterway and creating attractive pedestrian promenades.

Today, Quai Dampierre has become one of Troyes' most popular cultural and tourist destinations—a pleasant place to walk, relax and discover both contemporary art and the city's rich historical heritage.

15. Sculpture « La Jeune Fille au Baiser »

📍 Quai Dampierre, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Open at all times

This bronze sculpture depicts a young woman leaning forward to kiss passers-by. It was installed on Quai Dampierre as part of the major redevelopment of the riverfront that began in 2012.

Created by Dutch sculptor Sjer Jacobs (born 1963), it is an enlarged version of Sofia, a sculpture that can also be seen in Middelburg, the Netherlands.

The graceful figure leans out towards visitors with an affectionate gesture, inviting smiles, photographs and a moment of interaction. Its playful design has made it one of the most popular contemporary artworks along the quays.

The sculpture was chosen to enhance the romantic atmosphere of the newly redesigned waterfront. It also echoes Troyes' rich literary and cultural heritage, recalling the age of Marie of Champagne and the tradition of courtly love celebrated by the medieval poet Chrétien de Troyes, one of the founders of Arthurian romance.

16. Sculpture « Le Cœur de Troyes »

📍 Quai des Comtes de Champagne, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Open at all times (illuminated after dark)

This monumental stainless-steel sculpture, created by artists Michèle and Thierry Kayo-Houël, was inaugurated in 2013.

Installed on the banks of the canal, it measures 4 metres (13 ft) wide, 3.5 metres (11.5 ft) high, and 2 metres (6.5 ft) deep, with a weight of approximately 1.5 tonnes.

❤️ A Hidden Surprise

As night falls, the sculpture comes to life: an internal lighting system begins to pulse, reproducing the rhythm of a real human heartbeat.

This striking effect has made it one of the city's most romantic landmarks.

Today, it is a favourite meeting place for couples and newlyweds.

🏷️ Anecdote

The quays have become one of the most popular locations in Troyes for wedding photographs, engagement shoots and Valentine's Day photo sessions. With its softly glowing heart and the beautifully redeveloped waterfront, the setting offers one of the city's most romantic backdrops.

17. Les Maisons de la rue Passera

📍 1 Rue Passerat, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Exterior accessible at all times

A row of adjoining houses showcasing the distinctive architecture of historic Troyes, with beautifully restored half-timbered façades. They are a fine example of the traditional built heritage found throughout the Champagne Cork historic district.

Rue Passerat is particularly well known for its exemplary restoration carried out in 1978, which marked an important milestone in the preservation of Troyes' architectural heritage.

The architects introduced an innovative approach by using brick infill between the timber frames, replacing the traditional wattle-and-daub construction. One of the houses features a façade covered with essentes—small wooden shingles that protect the structure while giving the building a unique and distinctive appearance.

These restoration projects, carried out mainly between the 1960s and 1980s, allowed the neighbourhood to regain much of its original historic character and helped preserve one of Troyes' most remarkable architectural treasures.

18. Théatre de Champagne

📍 Boulevard du 14 Juillet, 10000 Troyes
🕐 According to the theatre programme. Please check the theatre's website.

Built between 1903 and 1905 by architect Henri Schmitt, this remarkable building was originally designed as the Municipal Circus.

Constructed from brick and iron, the venue featured a circular layout with a central sand-covered arena where spectacular equestrian performances took place, featuring dozens of horses, acrobats and grand-scale circus shows.

In 1930, the building was converted into a cinema. Then, in 1978, it was transformed into a theatre, giving the historic venue a new cultural purpose while preserving its unique architectural character.

19. Église et Place Saint-Rémy

📍 Place Saint-Rémy, 10000 Troyes
🕐 Tue–Sun: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. & 2:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. • Closed Mondays

Founded in the 10th century, this is one of the oldest churches in Troyes. First documented during that period, it originally stood outside the city walls before being incorporated into the expanding town in the 13th century. It was then extensively rebuilt in the Flamboyant Gothic style between the 14th and 16th centuries.

The church can be recognised from afar by its remarkable 62-metre slate spire, deliberately twisted to provide better resistance against strong winds—a true medieval engineering achievement.

Inside, visitors can admire paintings by Jacques de Létin and a bronze dying Christ by François Girardon, the official sculptor of King Louis XIV. Born in Troyes, Girardon also contributed works to the Palace of Versailles.

A Masterpiece

On the exterior wall, don't miss the exceptional 18th-century enamel sundial, remarkable for its vivid colours and extraordinary state of preservation.

Anecdote

During the French Revolution, the church bells were melted down to produce cannons. Later, in the 19th century, the church was threatened with demolition, but it was saved thanks to the efforts of local residents. It was finally classified as a Historic Monument in 1908.

EXPLORE THE SURROUNDINGS OF TROYES

L'Église D'Isle-Aumont

this church remains exceptional for its history.

Neolithic opidium, place of worship for the Celts, sanctuary dedicated to Mercury during the Roman occupation, Merovingian abbey and necropolis, priory and last stopover for pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela from the 12th century.

The historic building was listed as a monument in 1967. The church consists of a nave with a Gothic portal which was adorned with the arms of France, Burgundy and Champagne. Four crossings lead to a tower which surmounts the old 10th century altar. The second nave, located to the south of the first, is decorated with a series of statues. The south side aisle was removed in the 16th century and the north side in the 19th century.

More information

Abbaye de Clairvaux

Founded by Saint Bernard in 1115, this abbey hosted up to 888 monks. A former Cistercian abbey, it was founded in 1115 by Bernard of Clairvaux and a few companions, sent by Etienne Harding, Abbot of Cîteaux. The personality of Saint Bernard gave him considerable influence. It belongs to the group of primary abbeys (first foundations) of Cîteaux, itself the very first abbey of the Cistercian order. It is by far the most prolific, with eighty daughter abbeys. It was suppressed during the French Revolution and in 1808, it was transformed by Napoleon into the largest prison in France.

More information

Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Chaource

Gothic-style church, listed as a historical monument in 1840. Its Sepulcher Chapel has the most beautiful entombment in Europe.

The scene is strikingly realistic. On the slab of the tomb, the cadaverous body of Christ is lying, the torso slightly raised by Joseph of Arimathea who keeps the holy shroud raised. His face remains in shadow, because the hour of the Resurrection has not arrived. Nicodemus raises the shroud, he wears a pilgrim's outfit, carrying the purse. Marie is bent over, her face gnawed by pain. Saint-Jean is placed behind her. Marie-Salomé is slightly behind, hands crossed, eyes lowered. Mary Magdalene holds a vase of perfume. Marie Cléophas, wears the crown of thorns.

More information

Le Moulin de Dosches et les jardins

The Moulin de Dosches is the recent reconstruction of a windmill typical of those that were installed in Champagne in the 18th century. It is located in the municipality of Dosches, in the department of Aube.

It was built from October 2004 to October 2006, under the aegis of the Association des Moulins à vent Champenois on the plans of those of yesteryear.

It is an all-wood mill built on a pivot, that is to say, it must be rotated to face the wind for better efficiency. Despite the 28 tons of the mill, two men are enough to push the lever and turn the mill.

The mill is used for educational and exhibition purposes. As well as for the production of flour sold at the shop.

A traditional bread oven has been built near the mill, as well as an ancient garden

More information

Château de la Motte-Tilly

The Château de La Motte-Tilly is located in the commune of the same name.

Its interiors have been listed as historical monuments since September 2, 1943. The castle, the chapel, the pavilions, the main courtyard, the entrance gate and, finally, the park, with its terraces and its canal have been classified as historical monuments since September 16, 1946. Open to the public since 1978, the castle is managed by the Center des monuments nationaux.

More information

Revenir au début

LE BOUCHON DE CHAMPAGNE

VISIT TROYES - The app

VISIT TROYES - Points Of Interest

EXPLORE THE SURROUNDINGS OF TROYES

L'Église D'Isle-Aumont

​

​

Abbaye de Clairvaux

​

​

Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Chaource

​

​

Le Moulin de Dosches​ et les jardins

​

Château de la Motte-Tilly

​

​

Le Moulin de Dosches et les jardins