Historical significance of Laon

Laon, known as the "Crowned Mountain," is a city in the Aisne region of northern France with a long history dating back to the early Middle Ages. It was a royal site, and in 991, Duke Charles of Lorraine was betrayed and handed over to Hugh Capet, an event that shaped its historical narrative.

Cultural and architectural heritage

The city is renowned for its rich cultural and architectural heritage, with over eighty classified monuments in the upper city. Laon holds the designations "City of Art and History" and "Remarkable Sites and Cities," allowing visitors to explore its streets and discover its unique character, as noted by Victor Hugo, who described it as "another city within."

Notre-Dame de Laon cathedral

The current cathedral, Notre-Dame de Laon, was built after a catastrophic event in 1112 when its Carolingian predecessor was destroyed during a communal uprising against Bishop Gaudry. Construction began in the mid-12th century and ended in 1235, creating a unified design that showcases early Gothic architecture with its emphasis on light and height.

Cathedral's towers and features

The cathedral's towers are a major attraction, with five of the seven originally planned towers constructed. The towers feature lattice architecture described as almost Byzantine by Hugo. At the top, sixteen large statues of bulls are positioned, symbolizing the animals that transported building materials during construction. Guided tours allow visitors to explore the cathedral's heights and enjoy panoramic views.

Chapel of the Knights Templar

Near the cathedral, the Chapel of the Knights Templar of Laon, built around 1140, stands as a rare octagonal structure inspired by the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. It served as a chapel for the commandery of the order and was recently restored, offering access to two prophet statues from around 1200.

Historic buildings and legends

The Cour du Dauphin, certified as a hotel since 1618, retains 15th-century elements like its stair tower and windows. Tradition claims that Louis XIV was conceived there in 1638. The former episcopal palace, now a courthouse, is open to the public on special occasions, revealing an underground network of galleries carved in limestone and sand, spanning two thousand years of history.

Ramparts and medieval gates

Laon is surrounded by about seven kilometers of ramparts, offering scenic walks and a view of medieval gates dating back to the 13th century. These gates highlight the city's historical role as a stronghold. Visitors are advised to walk at sunset for a breathtaking view of the city and cathedral.

Additional sites and events

Other notable sites include the former Hôtel-Dieu and its cloister, the church of Saint-Martin, and themed guided tours that explore areas where canons lived. The city also hosts an international urban art festival, featuring artists like Epsylon Point and C215, contributing to its vibrant street art scene.

Accommodation and dining

For accommodation, visitors can choose from a range of options, including the Chateau-Hotel and La Chambre De Chevalier. Dining options include restaurants like Zorn, La Petite Auberge, and Couleur Café, offering a variety of culinary experiences. Laon invites visitors to explore its history and culture through its streets, each step revealing a story of revolt, betrayal, and the city's enduring legacy.