Chambéry : ideas from Guides France
Book a guide !
Chambéry, located at the foot of the Alps in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, is a city with authentic charm and fascinating history. Former capital of the Duchy of Savoy, it retains a remarkable architectural heritage, with treasures such as the Castle of the Dukes of Savoy and the Elephant Fountain, emblem of the city. Its historic center, with its picturesque streets and colorful buildings, invites you to stroll. Chambéry is also the ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding mountain landscapes, offering a perfect blend of culture, history and nature.
Chambéry : ideas from Guides France
Visit the Castle of the Dukes of Savoy
The Château des Ducs de Savoie, located in Chambéry, is a major historical monument which testifies to the region’s rich past. Built in the 13th century, it was the residence of the Dukes of Savoy for several centuries before becoming an important administrative and political center. This castle, with its imposing fortifications and medieval towers, played a central role in the history of Savoy. Today it is home to several cultural institutions, including museums and exhibition halls which offer a fascinating insight into the lives and history of the dukes.
A visit to the castle allows you to discover its various facets, ranging from the ceremonial rooms decorated with frescoes and sculptures to the private chapel where certain members of the Savoyard family rest. The castle is also known for its keep, which offers stunning panoramic views of the town of Chambéry and the surrounding mountains. By exploring its interior courtyards and gardens, visitors can feel the historic and majestic atmosphere that has marked centuries of Savoyard history.
Stroll through the historic center
The historic center of Chambéry is a true architectural gem which seduces with its authentic charm and picturesque streets. Strolling through the narrow cobbled avenues, visitors discover houses with colorful facades and wrought iron balconies, testifying to the city’s rich medieval and Renaissance past. Lively squares, like Place du Palais de Justice, are lined with cafes and artisan shops, providing a lively and welcoming atmosphere. The Elephant Fountain, an emblematic monument of the city, rises in the heart of this historic part and attracts attention with its imposing sculptures and its role as a symbol of the city.
While exploring the historic center, one cannot miss the discovery of the Saint-François-de-Sales Cathedral, whose interior architecture, decorated with frescoes and stained glass windows, impresses with its beauty and elegance. The district also preserves vestiges of old fortifications and aristocratic residences, which tell the story of the evolution of Chambéry over the centuries. The mix of old stones, historic buildings and local shops creates a picturesque and pleasant setting for an immersion in the past and culture of this Alpine town.
Explore the Saint-François-de-Sales Cathedral
The Saint-François-de-Sales Cathedral, located in Chambéry, is a remarkable example of 17th century religious architecture. Erected on the site of an old building, it was built between 1590 and 1619 to replace an older church which had been destroyed. This cathedral, dedicated to Saint François de Sales, the patron saint of Savoy, is distinguished by its elegant facade and sumptuous interior. The building’s Baroque architecture is particularly notable for its ornate frescoes and sculptures, as well as its colorful stained glass windows that create an atmosphere of serenity and grandeur.
Inside, the cathedral reveals an impressive artistic wealth with its decorated chapels, religious works of art and painted ceilings. The high altar, adorned with a carved wooden altarpiece, is a focal point of the cathedral, attracting the eye with its refined details. Visitors can also admire the finely crafted wooden pulpit and various religious relics on display. Saint-François-de-Sales Cathedral thus constitutes a vibrant place of worship, rich in history and art, offering an unforgettable spiritual and cultural experience.
