This medieval town holds the record for the coldest temperature in France!

Imagine discovering a medieval town, rich in history, that holds the record for the coldest temperature in France. Look no further than Langres, just 2? hours from Paris. In this article, we’ll introduce you to this fascinating town, its historic monuments and its very special climate.

A fortified architectural gem

Langres is an exceptional fortified town, with a ring of ramparts more than 3 kilometres long. These ramparts, among the best preserved in Europe, offer a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. The town’s many bastions, towers and gates bear witness to its military past and strategic importance. Strolling through the cobbled streets will take you back in time to the heart of the Middle Ages.

The town also boasts a number of religious buildings, including the Cathedral of Saint-Mammès, a remarkable Gothic monument. You can also visit the Basilica of Saint-Martin, a Romanesque building housing a treasure trove of religious art. These places of worship reflect the importance of religion in the history of Langres and contribute to its unique charm.

A rich historical heritage

Langres has an exceptional historical heritage, with more than 70 monuments listed or registered as Historic Monuments. These include the Renaissance House, a residence dating from the 16th century, and the Town Hall, a classical building constructed in the 18th century. The Musée d’Art et d’Histoire de Langres, housed in the former episcopal palace, will enable you to learn more about the history of the town and its region through its art and archaeology collections.

Langres is also the birthplace of Denis Diderot, one of the great thinkers of the Enlightenment and co-author of the Encyclopédie. By visiting the Maison des Lumières Denis Diderot, you can immerse yourself in the life and work of this major philosopher. Cultural events such as the Les Nuits de Champagne festival and the Antiquarian Book Fair are organised throughout the year to showcase Langres’ rich historical and cultural heritage.

Langres: The unusual record for the coldest town in the country

Langres may be famous for its historic and architectural heritage, but it is also famous for its climate. The town holds the record for the coldest temperature ever recorded in mainland France, at -41.2°C on 10 January 1985. This extreme cold is due to its geographical location, at an altitude of 450 metres on the Langres plateau, which favours temperature inversions and episodes of extreme cold.

But rest assured, this record remains exceptional! Langres generally has a continental climate, with cold winters and mild summers. The town also experiences heavy rainfall, which explains the presence of numerous lakes and rivers in the surrounding area. If you’re keen on outdoor activities, there are many hiking trails, cycle paths and rock-climbing sites in the area. And if you prefer winter sports, the ski resorts of the Vosges are just a few hours away.

So now you know all about Langres, this fortified town that is both charming and chilly. If you’re looking for an original destination for your next weekend or holiday, don’t hesitate to come and discover this medieval gem located just 2h30 from Paris. Whether it’s for its historic heritage, its lush green landscapes or its unique climate, Langres will win you over and give you a complete change of scenery.