History of Saintes, Charente-Maritime, France

(Saintes) - The old Saint-Pierre Cathedral, dating from the 15th century, was badly damaged by the Huguenots (Protestants) in 1568.

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1730 - Hôtel du Marquis de Monconseil constructed in Saintes

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Saintes was the administrative centre of the Charente Inférieure département (now Charente-Maritime) from 1791 until La Rochelle supplanted it in 1810.

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(Saintes) - The Roman Ruins: The L’Arc of Germanicus by the riverbank was originally built in 19AD and dedicated to emperor Tiberius, his son Drusu and his nephew Germanicus.
Originally standing on a stone bridge in the town it was moved to its present location in 1843 when the bridge was demolished to make way for a newer one.
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1895 - Saintes
Saintes, a town of France. Charente-Inférieure, 42 miles S.E. of La Rochelle, on the left bank of the Charente. Lat. 45° 45' N., lon. 0°33' W. Pop. 11,150. It has a fine cathedral, a communal college, a public library, a tribunal of commerce, an extensive trade in cognac brandy, and manufactures of leather, crockery, bolting-cloth, candles, &c. Saintes was the capital of the old province of Saintonge.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1906
Saintes, a town of France, capital of an arrondissement in the department of Charente-Inferieur, 42 miles SE. of La Rochelle, on the left bank of the Charente. It has many Roman remains, including the ruins of a large amphitheatre and the arch of Germanicus. The principal edifices are the church of St. Pierre (the old cathedral), the church of Notre Dame, the church of St. Eutropius (founded in the sixth century and rebuilt in the sixteenth), and the Palais de Justice. There are foundries and manufactures of agricultural implements, etc. Saintes took its name from having been the chief town of the Gallic tribe of the Santones. It was the capital of the old province of Saintonge. Pop. in 1901, 13,799 (commune 18,219).
Lippincott's New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns ... in Every Portion of the Globe Publisher J.B. Lippincott Company, 1906

2023 - Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Saintes has something to offer everyone. Here's a list of places to visit and things to do in and around Saintes:
Arch of Germanicus: Start your exploration of Saintes with a visit to the Arch of Germanicus, a Roman triumphal arch dating back to the 1st century AD. It's an iconic symbol of the town's ancient heritage and is beautifully preserved.

Amphitheatre of Saintes: Right next to the Arch of Germanicus, you'll find the Roman Amphitheatre. This well-preserved arena once hosted gladiator contests and other events. You can explore the tunnels and get a feel for what it must have been like during Roman times.

Saint-Pierre Cathedral: Visit the Saint-Pierre Cathedral, an impressive Romanesque church with a history dating back to the 12th century. The architecture and stained glass windows are remarkable.

Abbaye aux Dames: This former Benedictine abbey, known as the Abbey of the Ladies, is another stunning religious site in Saintes. The abbey features a beautiful church and tranquil gardens.

Museum of Art and History: If you're interested in the town's history and culture, the Museum of ... Read MORE...