Aubusson

Visit Aubusson, Limousin

Aubusson is located to the north of Meymac and the west of Clermont-Ferrand, in the quiet countryside of the Creuse department of Limousin.

The town is best known for its long history as a producer of fine tapestries and rugs, dating from the 16th century, and this is the main reason that people visit Aubusson. The tapestries produced in the town have traditionally represented landscapes, hunting scenes and idealised portraits of characters, although the 20th century also saw some modern designs emerging.

Exploring Aubusson

The main attraction in the town is the Museum of Tapestry, which contains a collection of tapestries from the last 400 years. There is more to see in Aubusson than just tapestries, however, and the town itself merits an exploration - the centre is small, and quick and easy to explore.

The 'old town' in Aubusson is centred around the 17th century stone bridge over the river Creuse, the Pont de Terrade, which connects the region where the workers traditionally lived and the workshops where the rugs were produced. The medieval house at the end of the bridge is called the Chatelet de la Terrade, while the rest of the old town contains many ancient houses and is the highlight of a visit.

Elsewhere in Aubusson you will see some other interesting buildings, such as the clock tower (originally a watchtower within Aubusson fortifications), and the ruins of an 11th century castle can also be seen. The Town Hall is an unusual example of Art Deco architecture in France.

The building with a tower next to the Aubusson tourist office on Rue Vieille in the centre of the town dates from the 16th century and is now open to the public, with the history of tapestry work explained through a good number of exhibits and examples of tapestry work. There are also various other workshops and galleries in the town.

A little way south of here you can see a church that dates in part from the 13th century (you can also see some tapestries inside the church). Much of the appeal of Aubusson architecture lies in the attention to detail such as ancient doorways and pretty balconies so allow time to explore.

Attractions nearby

The countryside around Aubusson, including the 'Regional Natural Park of Millevaches' is an attractive mix of forests, mountains separated by cascading rivers, and small scale farming.

Tourist classifications for Aubusson: Recommended detour town (plus beau detour);

Suggested places to visit near Aubusson, France

Distances shown are direct, driving distances will be greater.

More suggestions: Treignac 55km;

See these places and more on a map at places near Aubusson

Aubusson tourism: sights and attractions nearby

Millevaches en Limousin - regional natural parc (34km) : Pierres Jaumetres - site of natural beauty (37km) : Jardin de la Ganille - remarkable garden (47km) : Jardins du château d'Ainay-le-Vieil - remarkable garden (51km) : Neris-les-Bains - recommended detour (53km) :

French version: see Aubusson (Francais)