Bar-sur-Aube

Bar-sur-Aube, a market town in France's Grand Est region, rests along the Aube River, cradled by the vine-covered hills of southern Champagne. This town weaves together medieval character with natural beauty and local winemaking traditions. It offers a tranquil base for exploring the less-traveled corners of the Champagne region.

Known for its quiet elegance and its position along the Route du Champagne, Bar-sur-Aube provides an authentic, unhurried experience. Travelers can engage directly with local producers, wander through venerable streets, and enjoy the surrounding vineyards and countryside at a relaxed pace.

The town's historical significance is deeply connected to the Champagne Fairs of the Middle Ages, which drew merchants from across Europe. Today, Bar-sur-Aube continues its traditional activities, including crystal-making, ironworks, and wood and hemp industries.

## From Roman Settlement to Medieval Hub Bar-sur-Aube's history stretches back to antiquity, with archaeological finds such as ancient coins, including the Togarix coin, indicating early inhabitants. The town even appeared on the Roman Tabula Peutingeriana under the name Segessera. Remains from the 1st to 4th centuries, including villas, have been discovered in and around the town. The city suffered devastation at the hands of Attila in 451 AD.

During the Middle Ages, Bar-sur-Aube grew into a prominent trading center. By the 12th century, it was a prosperous and important town, attracting numerous merchants and craftspeople. Its renown was largely due to the Champagne Fairs, which were instrumental in medieval European trade. These fairs, held across four towns including Bar-sur-Aube, ensured continuous trading activity throughout the year. The Counts of Bar-sur-Aube governed the county for centuries, before it passed to the House of Blois in the 14th century.

## Napoleonic Era and Beyond The town also played a part in the Napoleonic Wars. The First Battle of Bar-sur-Aube occurred on January 24, 1814, during the War of the Sixth Coalition. Marshal Édouard Mortier's French Imperial Guards defended against Austrian and Württemberger forces. Mortier's elite troops ultimately retreated to Troyes under the cover of night. Just over a month later, on March 9, 1814, the Treaty of Chaumont was signed nearby, solidifying the alliance against Napoleon between Austria, Prussia, Russia, and the United Kingdom.

## A Legacy of Character Today, Bar-sur-Aube is recognized as a "Petite Cité de Caractère®," a designation acknowledging its enduring historical and architectural heritage, combined with a pleasant provincial atmosphere. The town has preserved its past through various classified historical monuments, including the Church of Saint-Pierre, the Church of Saint-Maclou, its media library, and the town hall, which was once an Ursuline convent.

Bar-sur-Aube's historic town center features timber-framed houses, Renaissance facades, and winding lanes. The medieval street layout and bridges crossing the Aube River invite leisurely walks. The arcaded market square and fragments of ancient fortifications also merit attention.

The 12th-century Church of Saint-Pierre, a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, stands prominently in the town center. Its interior reveals vaulted ceilings, carved capitals, and stained glass. The church also features a wooden gallery, known as a 'halloy,' which likely served merchants during the Champagne Fairs.

For those interested in wine, Bar-sur-Aube lies at the heart of the Côte des Bar, a sub-region celebrated for its Pinot Noir-based Champagnes. Numerous Champagne houses and grower-producers offer tastings. The town hosts a weekly market, typically on Wednesdays, presenting local produce, cheeses, honey, bread, and wines. Small independent shops and patisseries contribute to the local charm.

Beyond the town, the Forêt d'Orient Regional Natural Park offers opportunities for walks and outdoor activities. The picturesque village of Essoyes, once home to painter Auguste Renoir, is a short journey away and features art-themed trails.

The ideal time to visit Bar-sur-Aube for outdoor activities extends from mid-June to early September, when the weather is comfortable and partly cloudy, with average daily high temperatures above 70°F (21°C). July offers the clearest skies, with pleasant temperatures and abundant sunshine. September is particularly lively due to the grape harvest, bringing wine-related events and beautiful foliage. Spring (April-May) provides mild weather, budding vines, and fewer crowds.

Bar-sur-Aube is approximately 45 minutes east of Troyes by car and about 2.5 hours from Paris. While regional trains connect from Troyes and Chaumont, a car is recommended for exploring the vineyards and countryside. Parking in Bar-sur-Aube is generally free and readily available near the market square, the church, and along the river. Arriving early is advisable during summer weekends or harvest events.

The town and surrounding villages offer several quality restaurants and bistros serving traditional dishes like coq au Champagne and pork terrines. Pair meals with local Champagne or Rosé des Riceys. For shopping, seek out Aube cider, goat's cheese, handmade pâtés, and, of course, Champagne directly from cellar doors.

The local Tourist Office, located at 4 boulevard du 14 Juillet, can arrange guided tours of the town or Saint-Pierre church by appointment.