Culture & heritage

While you’re on holiday, explore some of the local heritage of the Charente region. Succumb to the charm of towns and villages whose traditional architecture is still intact. 13 remarkable ‘Villages of Stone and Water’ on the water’s edge (ocean, rivers, marshland); 6 of the country’s Plus Beaux Villages (Most Beautiful Towns and Villages), where the atmosphere, history, heritage and way of life will amaze you at every step; 8 unique Petites Cités de Caractère (Small Towns of Character); and 4 Villes et Pays d’Art et d’Histoire (Towns of Art and History) in Rochefort, Saintes, Cognac and Royan. Don’t forget the listed historical sites, museums, châteaux, forts, ancient ruins and various Romanesque churches in Charente, 5 of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visit our châteaux, a vestige of centuries gone by. Château de La Rochefoucauld and Château de La Roche Courbon are among the finest examples. Embrace the major cultural events held in Charente throughout the year. Two unmissable examples are the International Comics Festival in Angoulême and Les Francofolies in La Rochelle, the third largest music festival in France. Charente is guaranteed to make an impression.