Located between Bresse, Dombes and Revermont, the town of Bourg-en-Bresse, capital of Ain, is famous for Brou Royal Monastery, whose beauty is a masterpiece of flamboyant gothic art. As well as this architectural gem there is a remarkable municipal museum, containing splendid collections of French, Flemish and Italian art from the 15th to the 20th century.
But the heritage of Bourg-en-Bresse does not stop there! At its historical centre, Bourg-en-Bresse has many reminders of its rich past. Old timber-framed residences of the 15th and 16th centuries, such as the Gorrevod House and the Hugon House for example, 18th-century mansions such as the Marron de Meillonnas mansion, the Jacobins Door - a relic of an old monastery - and the Cathedral of Our Lady, built in the Renaissance style (outside) and flamboyant gothic style (inside), with its stained glass windows and stalls dating from the 16th century, can all be seen on a tour of the old quarters. The 18th-century Hôtel-Dieu apothecary is also worth a trip for its laboratory, dispensary with superb wood panelling, and collection of ceramic pots.
2 kilometres from the town centre, Bouvent Leisure Park welcomes fans of water sports and relaxation, with its 21-hectare lake, beach (supervised bathing in summer), water sports centre, walking circuits, golf course and fishing corner.
A big food market takes place on Place du Champ de Foire every Wednesday and Saturday morning.
The Glorieuses de Bresse, a famous fine poultry contest that celebrates Bresse poultry, has been taking place each year in mid-December since 1862.
