History of Saintes, Charente-Maritime, France

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.

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.

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).

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 ...