Annecy, France

France is a country that is quite attractive for tourists around the world. The richest history, romantic Paris, the noblest wines, exquisite cuisine and lovely small towns. A special cozy and quiet atmosphere can be found in the city located in the east of France - Annecy. This is a small town, where just over 50 thousand people live. But it is known as an ancient resort at one of the most beautiful lakes of the country - Annecy. The intriguing beauty of local landscapes and comfortable rest attracts a large number of tourists every year. We'll tell you what to look in Annecy, so as not to waste time in vain.

Annecy: yesterday and today

Annecy is quite an ancient city. The first settlements here arose in the Bronze Age. And already in the Middle Ages in the 12th century, the medieval fortified castle of Annecy was erected here, around which later the city grew. In the 13th century, near the fortress, a palace for the Counts of Geneva was built, then from the end of the 14th century the dukes of Savoy, a historic region, lived here. Later, the city passed several times to the power of France, and then returned under the domination of the dukes of the Savoy. In the end, in 1860, Annecy finally became part of France.

To date, Annecy is a popular mountain-and-lake resort. It is located at an altitude of 445 m above sea level. The city is often called Savoy Venice. The fact is that from the lake near Annecy with the same name (only 60 km) there is a connecting channel Fie. Now tourists come to the city wishing to enjoy the local quiet and relaxing atmosphere, to visit the sights. There are also lovers of outdoor activities, because the city adjoins the foot of the Alps. Therefore, in recent years, actively developing near the Annecy ski resort, known as Lake Annecy with a total length of 220 km.

Annecy: attractions

An ancient city is an ideal place for romantic walks: quiet shady streets, bridges and water channels, cobblestone pavements, houses built in medieval style. First of all, tourists are invited to visit the castle of Annecy, the former residence of the Count of Geneva. You can get acquainted with the history of the construction and the city in the local history museum, which is located immediately. North of the castle is the Saint-Maurice Church, created in the 15th century, where visitors are invited to see religious art. On the outskirts of Annecy, the Basilica of Visitation rises, where Bishop Francis of Salsia is buried. It is built in the Gothic style and strikes the massiveness of its structure.

Feel an easy flair of romanticism at the Palace on the island, which seemed to have grown from a water canal. It was built on a small island in 1132, it was used as the residence of the Savoy vassals, the city court and even the prison. Now there is a historical museum. From the city there are trips to Lake Annecy, where you can not only admire the most beautiful views. This attracts tourists who like entertainment and sport on the water, as well as boat trips. By the way, annually in July, the Annecy festival dedicated to classical music is held.

For shopping in Annecy, we recommend that you visit St. Clair. In addition to old buildings and characteristic arcade galleries, there are many shops and shops where you can buy souvenirs and craft items.

As to how to get to Annecy, then it's not difficult to do it. It is located at the crossroads of the motorways connecting Geneva , Lyon, Mont Blanc, Chamonix . The distance from Geneva to Annecy is only 36 km, from Lyon 150 km, and from Paris 600 km.