Auvergne is a historic region in the center of France, known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Massif Central mountains and the picturesque countryside. The region was merged with Rhône-Alpes to form the new administrative region of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes in 2016. However, many people still refer to the historical boundaries of Auvergne. Here are some of the cities and towns within the historical region of Auvergne:
- Clermont-Ferrand: The regional capital of Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand is the largest city and is known for its Gothic-style cathedral and the nearby dormant volcanic chain known as the Chaîne des Puys.
- Vichy: A spa town famous for its thermal springs and wellness centers, Vichy is also known for its beautiful parks and gardens.
- Aurillac: A town in the Cantal department, Aurillac is known for its street festival and the Château Saint-Étienne.
- Montluçon: Located in the Allier department, Montluçon is known for its medieval castle and historic old town.
- Le Puy-en-Velay: A picturesque town in the Haute-Loire department, Le Puy-en-Velay is famous for its cathedral and starting point for the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route in France.
- Moulins: This town in the Allier department is known for its 14th-century cathedral, historic center, and the National Center of Costume and Scenography.
- Riom: Riom is a historic town in the Puy-de-Dôme department with a well-preserved medieval core.
- Issoire: Located in the Puy-de-Dôme department, Issoire is known for its Romanesque abbey church.
- Thiers: This town is famous for its cutlery industry and is often referred to as the “Cutlery Capital of France.”
These are some of the notable cities and towns within the historical region of Auvergne, which is now part of the larger administrative region of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
Author: Kirill Shrayber, Ph.D.