When dragons roamed the lands

Pérouges is a medieval village close to Lyon which was probably founded by Gallic people returning from Perugia in Italy (hence its name) becoming French only in 1601. It was a village of craftsmen, mainly flax farmers and linen weavers gaining its communal freedom in 1236. A fortified hilltop town it stood strong against the troops of Lyon and boomed until the 19th century when it sadly became almost deserted. Saved from destruction by concerned citizens and Lyon´s mayor the village was restored and revival started in 1911.

The modern day visitor is transported back in time to cobbled lanes, tiny windows made of thick brown or green uneven glass, houses with thick walls and taverns with blackened ceiling beams where local delicacies are being served all surrounded by imposing city walls visible for miles around. The Old shopfronts with their window stalls are still in evidence, some displaying the traditional Galette de Pérouges. This is a place to unwind, contemplate and sit in peace surrounded by history.