Ain Heritage Day

Every year, the European Heritage Days offer a unique opportunity to explore the cultural, natural, and architectural treasures of the Ain department. Between Bugey, Dombes, Revermont, and the Plaine de l’Ain, the department is brimming with castles, fortified villages, abbeys, protected natural sites, and museums that reopen their doors to reveal the secrets of their history. The European Heritage Days take place every year on the third weekend of September, generally over two days, Saturday and Sunday.

Here is a selection of six must-see sites, perfect for a day filled with discovery, encounters, and wonder.

Château de Chazey-sur-Ain: A Journey Through Five Centuries of History

Majestic, perfectly restored, and surrounded by a vast wooded park, the Château de Chazey-sur-Ain is one of the most iconic sites of the Heritage Days. A former medieval fortress, now a stately home, it offers guided tours that immerse visitors in the region’s military, political, and artistic history.

During Heritage Days, the château exceptionally opens certain rooms usually closed to the public: historic salons, state rooms, the private chapel, and more. This is a rare opportunity to discover its defensive architecture, round towers, monumental staircase, and the remains of its moat.

The estate’s gardeners also offer discussions about the park and local biodiversity, highlighting the essential landscape role of these historic sites within the Bugey and Ain Plain ecosystems.

Address: Château de Chazey-sur-Ain, 01150 Chazey-sur-Ain
Website: https://www.chateaudechazey.fr

Royal Monastery of Brou in Bourg-en-Bresse: A Flamboyant Gothic Masterpiece

A must-see in the Ain region, the Royal Monastery of Brou, a listed historical monument, is a true architectural gem. Built in the 16th century by Margaret of Austria, this monument is among the finest examples of the Flamboyant Gothic style in Europe.
Visitors can explore its three cloisters, its richly decorated church, its exceptionally fine funerary sculptures, and its iconic glazed tile roofs.

For Heritage Days, the monastery often offers special guided tours, family workshops, demonstrations of ancient techniques, and activities depicting daily life during the time of the Duchies of Savoy. A complete immersion in European Renaissance history, in the heart of Bourg-en-Bresse.

Address: Royal Monastery of Brou, 63 Boulevard de Brou, 01000 Bourg-en-Bresse
Website: https://monastere-de-brou.fr

The medieval village of Pérouges: a concentration of living history and sugar pie!

Classified as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages of France,” Pérouges is a must-see during Heritage Days. This remarkably well-preserved medieval village offers a picture-postcard setting: cobbled streets, stone houses, shops, fortifications, an iconic central square… A complete immersion in the Middle Ages.

For the occasion, guided tours and short visits are organized by volunteers and local guides: explore the ramparts, visit artisans’ workshops, watch archery demonstrations, see temporary exhibitions, and sometimes even discoveries for families.

It’s impossible to leave Pérouges without tasting the famous sugar galette, a local specialty enjoyed by visitors and locals alike.

Address: Medieval City of Pérouges, 01800 Pérouges
Website: https://www.perouges.org

Bouligneux Castle: A hidden gem in the heart of the Dombes!

Located in the Dombes, a region of a thousand ponds, Bouligneux Castle is often a highlight during Heritage Days. This privately owned castle, rarely open to the public, welcomes visitors for guided tours exploring its seigniorial history, defensive architecture, and strategic role in the region.
Its large park and moat offer a remarkable natural setting, ideal for a photographic stroll and for learning more about the biodiversity of the Dombes ponds.

Each year, the owners offer unique activities: lectures, demonstrations, exhibitions of antique objects, and themed tours. A rare opportunity not to be missed for history enthusiasts.

Address: Château de Bouligneux, 01330 Bouligneux
Website: https://www.bouligneux.fr

The Church of Saint-Sorlin-en-Bugey: a treasure of religious heritage!

A hidden gem of Bugey’s religious heritage, the Church of Saint-Sorlin-en-Bugey captivates visitors with its architecture, ancient paintings, and peaceful atmosphere. Heritage Days often provide access to areas normally closed to the public, allowing visitors to admire the restored details of its frescoes, stained glass windows, and sculptures. Local associations sometimes organize

Guided tours, mini-concerts, and presentations on sacred art and the region’s ancient rites are available.

Located at the foot of the Bugey cliffs, the village itself is well worth a visit: traditional facades, narrow streets, natural viewpoints, and the typical atmosphere of villages in the southern Jura.

Address: Saint-Sorlin Church, Rue de l’Église, 01150 Saint-Sorlin-en-Bugey
Website: https://www.saintsorlinenbugey.fr

Bugey-Valromey Museum: Immerse yourself in local history

For those wishing to add a cultural touch to their day, the Bugey-Valromey Museum is highly recommended. Situated in a stunning natural setting, it presents the history of the Bugey region through ethnographic collections, everyday objects, works by local artists, and historical reconstructions.

During Heritage Days, the museum offers self-guided and guided tours, family workshops, demonstrations of traditional skills, and activities showcasing the heritage of the Bugey region (vineyards, housing, crafts, and gastronomy).

An ideal place to understand the roots of the area, blending rural heritage and human history.

Address: Musée du Bugey-Valromey, 3 Rue Centrale, 01260 Lochieu
Website: https://www.musee-du-bugey.fr