Voir en plein écran

Bourges is slightly off the beaten trail of Loire Valley attractions, but the town has played an important part in French history and is worth a mention for its cathedral, medieval quarter, and Jacques Coeur who was Charles VII's financial advisor.

Charles VII retreated to Bourges after losing to Henri V at Agincourt, and he married Marie d'Anjou at Bourges cathedral in 1422. However, in spite of Charles' nickname of "King of Bourges" (concocted by the cruel English), it is really Jacques Coeur who reigns here. In fact, Coeur is to Bourges what Jeanne d'Arc is to Orléans. The Palais de Jacques Coeur on rue Jacques Coeur is a surprisingly modern house, incorporating an early steam room, and preempts French Renaissance trends in architecture. There isn't much furniture in the house but there are plenty of decorative motifs to catch the eye.

Discover all the guide Bourges & Cher

3 results in the Gay Sejour guide