Bourges, Centre, France

Place Planchat in Bourges, France
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:BourgesplacePlanchat.JPG
Author: Guillaume70


Bourges is a city in the department of Cher, in Centre, France. It covers 69 sq km (26.54 sq mi) and has a population of 100,000 people (2012 estimate).

The Bourges area has been inhabited since the Celtic period. Its Celtic name was Avaricon while its Latin name was Avaricum. The present name is believed to have been derived from the Germanic "Burg" which means hill or village, from which we get the French word "bourg" and the English "borough".

The earliest incarnation of Bourges was built by the Romans, some of which remain till this day. The city became a bishopric under Saint Ursinus in the 3rd century, and was elevated to archbishopric in the 8th century. Construction of the Cathedral of Saint Etienne began at the end of the 12th century.

Today Bourges has many historic sights, and most important of which include the cathedral and the Palace of Jacques Cœur. The cathedral is today a World Heritage Site.

Interior of the Cathedral of Bourges
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Cathedrale_bourges_interieur.JPG
Author: KoS

How to go to Bourges

From Paris, take the A10 (E5) expressway heading southwest then south to Orléans, then continue on the A71 south until you reach Bourges.

World Heritage Sites in Bourges

Places of Interest in Bourges

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