Chartres: A historic and picturesque city
Chartres is the first city in the Eure-et-Loir department and the sixth in the Centre-Val de Loire region, and is located 90 km from Paris. The city suffered damage during a bombing in 1944.
History and identity
Chartres was the chief town of the Carnutes, a Gallic people, and was the seat of several councils. Its cathedral has remained a place of annual pilgrimage. The site was destroyed in 1944 during an Anglo-American bombing.
What to see
The cathedral remains the central monument of Chartres and still hosts several annual pilgrimages. The urban relief also deserves attention: the heart of the city occupies a rocky promontory on the Beauce plateau, bypassed by the Eure, then descends gently towards the arms of the river.
Understanding the place
To visit Chartres, check current access before leaving. The city is located 90 km from Paris and 80 km from Orléans, and is located on the Beauce plateau.
Where to stay
A hotel in the old heart allows you to reach the cathedral and the main urban routes on foot. An address close to the boulevards which delimit the ancient town can facilitate arrival and excursions in Beauce; check distances before booking.
Prepare for the visit
Timetables, access conditions and transport may change. Consult the official pages linked from the source before the trip, protect the heritage and leave the entrances to the houses free. Source in local language.