Bourg en Bresse lies 60 kilometers north of Lyon in the Rhone-Alpes region of France to the west of the Jura Mountains. Known mainly for its churches, the town is home to the church of Notre Dame and to the church of Brou, which actually lies in one of the town’s suburbs.

Built in the 16th century, the Brou church has an impressively decorated façade and stunning marble effigies and other artwork inside. The church is done in the ornate Gothic style and boasts unusual cloisters that are stacked three high. It is officially known as the Royal Monastery of Brou and has been named a National Monument of France.

The town of Bourg en Bresse also boasts largely pedestrian-friendly streets that are lined with magnificent 16th thru 18th century homes that surround the charming Place de l’Hotel de Ville. Here, visitors will find a library and the Lorin museum, which contains a variety of impressive artwork