Surprising architecture
Embrace our magical landscapes, made all the more stunning thanks to surprising, typical and awe-inspiring architecture. At the heart of our towns and villages, these treasures - some of them not so well-known - await your visit. Are you ready to (re)discover in detail these architectural treasures that breathe life into our local heritage?
You can expect to see some elegant and surprising modern buildings in Dijon and Beaune. And here and there, there are aqueducts, staircase locks built to facilitate transport by boat, traditional glazed tiles, Roman treasures, wonderfully preserved half-timbered houses, and even castles built in very unique shapes!
The Priory of La Charité-sur-Loire
This real treasure of Romanesque art boasts a stunning, peaceful cloister, barrel-vaulted ceiling, huge columns, arcades and sculptures.
Did you know? La Charité-sur-Loire is located on the Santiago de Compostela route, which is also listed as UNESCO World Heritage. Set on the banks of the river Loire, the town was named as such as it welcomed pilgrims walking along this famous route.
The Priory of La Charité-sur-Loire
At the heart of the 'Climats' of Burgundy's vineyard
Cabottes, murgers, murets and clos are authentic drystone constructions that you will find at the heart of the 'Climats' of Burgundy's vineyard. For centuries, each 'Climat' has been marked out with precision by these constructions that protect both the vines and the winegrower.
The 'Climats' of Burgundy's vineyard
Hôtel Dieu at the Hospices de Beaune
The roof of the Hotel Dieu at the Hospices de Beaune is iconic in Burgundy. Burgundy's prestigious history is at the origin of this decorated roof which arrived here from Flanders.
All over Burgundy, you'll come across castles, manor houses and churches with surprising colours and patterns. Just make sure you keep your eyes peeled!
Visit the Hospices de Beaune
Villa Perrusson
This Belle Epoque-style pavilion was used as a show house for the owner of the ceramics factory in Ecuisses. The façades decorated in a wide range of decorative styles are incredible, still today.
The Villa Perrusson
Palden Shangpa
As you're exploring the Morvan, you might just come across a rather surprising place with dazzling paintings, ornate garden, colourful banners, and pyramidal architecture. Welcome to La Boulaye, a Buddhist temple!
Find out more about the temple
Le Consortium
In Dijon, the buildings of the Consortium were renovated by award-winning Japanese architect Shigeru Ban. The dazzling white building is home to the 4,000 m² museum of contemporary art. It has become a global reference.
Consortium Museum – Centre for contemporary art
The Cité des Climats et Vins of Beaune
The building was designed to reflect the tendrils of a vine plant that wind around a stake, and it is an outstanding architectural achievement. Even though the work was only completed in 2023, the Siz"-IX agency behind its design has already won several awards, including the LIV Hospitality Design Award. It is home to the Cité des Climats et Vins de Bourgogne of Beaune.
The Cité des Climats et Vins de Bourgogne
The MuséoParc Alésia
This cylindrical building features floor to ceiling windows and larch wood panels to reflect the structure of the fortifications. Architect Bernard Tchumi is behind this creation that houses the MuséoParc, a visitor's centre devoted to the famous battle of Alésia.
The MuséoParc Alésia
The Carmel de la Paix
This religious construction was built in 1970 by Spanish architect, Josep Luis Sert, who trained under Le Corbusier. From the top of the hill, the minimalistic, rough concrete building is surprising and continues to welcome a congregation of Carmelites today.
The Carmel de la Paix
The Château de Maulnes
This architectural masterpiece from the Renaissance is guaranteed to leave an impression on you, and rightly so, because it is a one-of-a-kind construction.
It was built on pentagon-shaped plans, is like a maze to explore, boasts a spiral staircase set around an open well, and there are symbols everywhere you look... So many architectural achievements in just one place!
We absolutely recommend a visit to this place, especially as the renovation work was only completed in 2023. There is an action-packed programme of activities and events aimed at families with children and fans of architecture.
The Château de Maulnes
The Château de Meauce
This castle is certainly surprising!
It was built in the 11th century and is one of the oldest castles in the Nivernais area, and its perfectly round appearance is totally unique.
Its eventful past can also be described as unique, with short periods of occupation followed by long periods of abandonment. It was given a new lease of life in 2005, when its new, passionate owners began renovation work.
Make sure you visit or even stay in this exceptional natural environment. The Bec d'Allier is classified as a Natura 2000 area and a stay here is a great way to experience both culture and nature.
The Château de Meauce