Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne
City Tours · Dombes
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© 2017
Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne is located in the heart of the former Department of Ain and the Dombes lake district. The medieval old town is renowned for its extraordinary floral displays and its excellently preserved historic buildings.
The best way to get a first impression is to start under the old 15th-century market hall while soaking up the medieval flair and strolling through the narrow alleys.
History
Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne has a rich and turbulent history. Known alternately as Castellio or Castilio, feudal lords built castles between the Chalaronne and Relevant rivers in the 11th century, around which people settled. Through dowry and marriage, the town came under Savoyard rule in 1272, leading to rapid commercial development and the construction of the city walls and the Church of Saint André.
Through the Treaty of Lyon (1601), Châtillon became French once again. Despite a major fire in 1670 that destroyed over 100 houses, the architectural heritage remained impressive. Today, the market halls—which still host the traditional market every Saturday—and the late Gothic church bear witness to this glorious era.
