Provins

The Jardin de la Mairie de St Brice in Provins is a tranquil oasis, directly adjacent to the historic town hall and Saint-Brice Church. This carefully tended city garden offers you a welcome break from the bustle of Provins' medieval alleys, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here you will find lovingly arranged flower beds, shade-giving trees, and comfortable benches inviting you to linger. The garden may not be historically significant like a castle, but it harmoniously complements the townscape and offers beautiful views of the surrounding architecture. Our Tip: Visit the garden in the late morning or early afternoon to enjoy the tranquility and best capture the vibrant colors of the flowers. It is an ideal spot for a short break or a quiet picnic while you explore the city.

The **ramparts of Provins** bear witness to the city's former importance as a center for medieval trade fairs. These impressive fortifications, erected in the 12th and 13th centuries, originally stretched for over 5 kilometers and effectively protected the prosperous city. Today, you can explore large sections of these well-preserved walls, which are still flanked by numerous towers and gates like the Porte de Jouy and the Porte Saint-Jean. A walk along the upper wall-walks offers you not only a deep insight into medieval military architecture but also picturesque views over the rooftops of the upper town and the surrounding landscape. Particularly noteworthy is the section near the Porte de Jouy, which is particularly well-preserved and often less frequented. Our Tip: Visit the ramparts in the early morning or late afternoon to capture the best light for photos and avoid the largest crowds. For a comprehensive experience, plan enough time to discover the various sections and their details.

In the UNESCO World Heritage city of Provins, 'The Eagles of the Ramparts' by Vol Libre Production offers a fascinating flight show that transports you into the world of medieval falconry. Against the impressive backdrop of the historic city walls, you'll experience a performance where majestic eagles, swift falcons, mysterious owls, and imposing vultures demonstrate their aerial skills. The show is not only a demonstration of animal grace, but also a lively history lesson that highlights the importance of falconry in the Middle Ages. Often, the flight demonstrations are staged with riders and knights, which enhances the historical ambiance and offers an authentic glimpse into that era. You'll also receive information about the various birds of prey and their role in nature and history. Our Tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes before the start to secure a good spot, especially in the shadier areas on hot days. For impressive photos of the flying birds against the medieval architecture, early afternoon is ideal, when the light is still soft.

The Caesar Keep (Tour César) stands as a striking landmark of Provins, a medieval town designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Erected in the 12th century, this imposing donjon originally served as a watchtower and later as a prison. Its unique octagonal form, set upon a robust square base, is architecturally remarkable and stands as a testament to the military engineering of its era. From its impressive summit, visitors are treated to extensive panoramic views extending over Provins' historic rooftops and the picturesque surrounding Brie countryside. Inside, you can explore the various internal levels, gaining an understanding of the daily life and essential functions within this remarkable historic edifice. The tower remains a central element of the city's robust fortifications, powerfully symbolizing Provins' former power and economic importance during the renowned Champagne Fairs. Our Tip: For the absolute best views and to effectively avoid the main tourist crowds, we highly recommend a visit during the early morning hours or in the late afternoon. An ideal and picturesque photo spot for capturing the tower's grandeur is found within the beautiful Provins Rose Garden.

The Provins Rose Garden is a tribute to the city's rich history and its connection to the rose. You'll find it nestled within the medieval setting of Provins, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, the legend of the Rose de Provins, a Rosa gallica officinalis, comes to life – a rose supposedly brought back from the Crusades in the 13th century by Count Thibaud IV of Champagne. This historic rose shaped the city and its economy, as it was used for medicinal purposes and perfume production. Within the garden itself, an impressive collection of over 300 different rose varieties awaits you, arranged in thematic beds. You can stroll through the meticulously maintained grounds, enjoy the diversity of blooms and fragrances, and experience the tranquility away from the urban hustle and bustle. Alongside the historical varieties, you'll also discover modern cultivations that illustrate the rose's development over centuries. A small tearoom invites you to linger. Our Tip: The best time for a visit is from late May to July, when most roses are in full bloom and the garden unfolds its greatest splendor. For undisturbed moments and the best photos, a weekday morning visit is recommended. Pay attention to the information panels, which provide details on the individual varieties and their history.