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Nevers

Visit Nevers, Burgundy

Nevers is in the Nièvre department (Burgundy region) of France, at the confluence of the Loire and Nièvre Rivers. The town has its origins as a regional centre in Roman times, when it was an important depot for Julius Caesar. It is now a lively, active town with several interesting historical monuments and renowned for its high quality porcelain.

Exploring Nevers

A visit to Nevers will focus in the streets of the old town around the cathedral where medieval houses (most 15th-16th centuries, but some dating as far back as the 12th century) line the narrow streets. The old town is just uphill from the bridge and river port on the Loire, and is a very enjoyable part of the town to explore.

There are several interesting buildings to explore, of which the Ducal Palace and the Cathedral of Saint-Cyr and Sainte-Julitte are the most important.

Ducal Palace

The 15th century Ducal Palace is very attractive, with a main facade including towers at either end and an ornate open staircase in the centre that incorporates many statues and decorative elements. There are also nice views across the valley of the Loire river. The building is now used for various exhibitions and also by the local council.

Note that the renaissance style theatre close to the Ducal Palace is actually much more recent, having been built in the 19th century.

Cathedral of Saint-Cyr and Sainte-Julitte

It is the tower of the cathedral that dominates the skyline of Nevers. The cathedral has very ancient origins, and the baptistry dates from the 6th century. The main church is medieval and partly in roman style and partly gothic style. Inside you will also notice that the stained-glass windows are very modern additions.

Other monuments and attractions

Other religious monuments in Nevers include the very well preserved roman style Church of Saint-Etienne dating from the 12th century - don't miss this church, it is very lovely and a very impressive example of roman style architecture! See also the ornate baroque facade of the Church of Sainte-Marie.

In startling contrast to these historical churches, the Church of Sainte-Bernadette du Banlay was built in 1966 and will be of interest to enthusiasts of modern architecture - it is a very unusual design 'rounded box' design using a great deal of concrete.

You can also see part of the original town ramparts including the Tour Goguin and the Porte du Croux.

Because of the town's historical links with the porcelain industry you will see various pottery and chinaware shops in the town. During the summer it is also possible to visit the workshops where the pottery is made - ask at the tourist office for details of the opening times (different workshops are open on different days).

Activities in the area

Many leisure activities near Nevers are based along and near the Loire river which has a great deal of picturesque countryside along its course. Visit the viewpoint at the Bec d'Allier to see view of the confluence of the Allier et Loire rivers.

Among the picturesque villages in the region be sure to visit Apremont-sur-Allier, listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France and only a short drive south from Nevers. The Abbey at Fontmorigny is another local highlight.

Note: photo is copyright

Tourist classifications for Nevers: Village in bloom (ville fleurie) 3*; Listed town of Art and History;

Suggested places to visit near Nevers, France

Distances shown are direct, driving distances will be greater.

More suggestions: Moulins 50km; Souvigny 51km; Bourges 58km; Palace Jacques Coeur 58km; Clamecy 59km;

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

Nevers tourism: sights and attractions nearby

Forgeneuve - remarkable garden (3km) : Parc floral d'Apremont - remarkable garden (13km) : Abbaye de Notre Dame (Charite-sur-Loire) - religious monument (23km) : Abbatiale Notre Dame (La Charite-sur-Loire) - religious monument (23km) : Arboretum de Balaine - remarkable garden (34km) : Eglise de Saint Germain (Blet) - religious monument (34km) : Prieuré de Saint Révérien (Saint-Reverien) - religious monument (36km) : Eglise de Saint André (Jussy-Champagne) - religious monument (39km) :