Visit France > Lorraine > Epinal

Epinal has though the centuries become an important economic, political and cultural centre... 

Proud of its military past and its position in the 19 th century fortified line protecting eastern France, Epinal's reputation is above all due to its coloured prints and print-marking traditions that reached a climax int he 18 th Century. They have since made a major contribution to the city's intrnational reputation: religious and historic prints, and period children's prints are available today, together with numerous contemporary prints.

Not far from several spa resorts and the Vosges mountains, Epinal has flourished over the centuries. Surrounded by vast forests, it is an important center for the wood industry. The effort and imagination it puts into its parks and gardens has earned it national and european awards as a "Flowered Town".

Amongst the major architectural treasures in the historic town centre are Saint Maurice's Basilica, the site of the medieval castle, the fortifications... Thanks to the quality of its museums, the contemporary sculpture in the streets, and many important festivals, Epinal is a town of exceptional artistic and cultural interest.

NOT TO BE MISSED

Architectural Heritage

The town's historic centre (Place des Vosges, the Chapitre pedestrian-only district…), Saint-Maurice's Basilica, the remains of the medieval castle, the Roman House, (XI and XIII c)…
Museums ans sites

The Cité de l'Image, the County Museum of Ancient and Contemporary Art (with masterpieces by Rembrandt, Georges de La Tour…), the Chapitre Tower Museum, The Belle Etoile Planetarium...

Uxegney Fort on the outskirts of the town as well as the Chatel-sur-Moselle Fortress.

Parks and gardens

The Castle Park (a wooded area with medieval gardens and vines), the Roman House rose garden (a French-style garden with 6,000 rose bushes of 550 different varieties), the Cours Park (an English-style garden), and an adventure park (a play area in the midst of nature). 

In brief: The Puss in Boots, Little Red Riding Hood and Cadet Roussel prints, taken from the Imagerie d'Epinal, help us to relive the folktales and songs of yesteryear.

Recommended Gifs: Epinal prints