Attractions and Places To See around Colligis-Crandelain - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Colligis-Crandelain offer a mix of historical and cultural sites within the Aisne department of France. The region is characterized by its religious heritage and significant historical landmarks. While Colligis-Crandelain itself features notable architecture, the surrounding area, particularly the city of Laon, provides a concentration of medieval structures and historical sites. This area presents opportunities to explore early Gothic architecture and preserved historical townscapes.
Best attractions and places to see around Colligis-Crandelain
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Last updated: July 2, 2026
Notre-Dame Cathedral
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Vauclair Abbey Ruins
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Porte d'Ardon
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Laon Old Town — Murals and Fortifications
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Porte de Soissons
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The Porte d’Ardon is one of the medieval city gates of Laon. The current structure dates from the 13th and 14th centuries. Originally, this gate was called “Porte Royée” because of its proximity to the royal palace of Laon. The gate consists of a châtelet with a portcullis and used to have doors. There was also a barbican, but this has now disappeared. Under the gate there was a fountain and wash houses, some of which still exist. The Porte d’Ardon was classified as a historical monument in 1909.
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The Porte de Soissons is a medieval city gate in Laon. It is one of the three remaining city gates of Laon and was built at the beginning of the 13th century when the fortifications were resumed. The gate is located in the south-west of the medieval city and is built of sandstone and limestone. The gate was originally known as the Porte Saint-Martin or Soibert, but was later renamed after the nearby town of Soissons. The rear of the gate (which was demolished in 1895) offers a cross-section of this type of defensive system: a vaulted room on the first floor, giving access to the harrow and the machicolation.
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A remarkable remnant of what was once a large and important abbey. Caesar, Napoleon and German troops are said to have passed through this area during the First World War.
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This abbey, which was founded in 1134 by St. Bernard, was severely damaged in a bombardment in 1917. The best preserved buildings are the pantry, the refectory of the lay brothers, the chapter house and the monks' hall. The foundations of the abbey church and the inn are still visible. Next to the garden with medicinal plants there is an exhibition space. Surrounding it is the monastic forest of Vauvelair, which covers 1000 hectares.
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Between the woods and the greenway, this former abbey is interesting from a historical point of view
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Here, the city walker will find an early masterpiece of Gothic architecture, a style often found in this part of France – Chartres and Reims, for example, attract enthusiastic international visitors and are far more famous than Laon. In the following 13th century, many Gothic churches were built, not only in their country of origin, France, but also beyond the country's borders, where this sky-high, light-filled architectural style was now in great demand for new churches (for example, the laying of the foundation stone for Cologne Cathedral in 1248).
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Loan is a medieval town on a mesa. A trip is very worthwhile! I would always prefer visiting Reims.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Colligis-Crandelain?
The region is rich in history. You can explore the ruins of Vauclair Abbey, founded in 1134 by St. Bernard and damaged in 1917, where you can still see the pantry, refectory, chapter house, and monks' hall. Another significant site is Laon Old Town — Murals and Fortifications, known for its medieval buildings and as the largest contiguous protected area in France.
Are there any notable churches or religious sites in the area?
Yes, the most prominent religious site is Notre-Dame Cathedral in nearby Laon, a significant example of early Gothic architecture built between 1155 and 1235. Within Colligis-Crandelain itself, the Eglise Saint-Martin features a remarkable Romanesque bell tower and a Gothic vault.
What outdoor activities are available near these attractions?
The area offers various outdoor activities, particularly cycling and running. You can find numerous road cycling routes, including loops around Lake Ailette and Vauclair Abbey. For runners, there are running trails that take you past the Vauclair Abbey Ruins and offer views of Lake Ailette. Mountain biking enthusiasts can also find MTB trails in the vicinity.
Are there any natural reserves or forests to explore?
While Colligis-Crandelain is rural, the broader Aisne department features several natural reserves. These include the Réserve naturelle des Landes de Versigny, the Réserve naturelle du marais de Vesles-et-Caumont, and the Foret de Retz. The monastic forest of Vauclair, spanning 1000 hectares, surrounds the Vauclair Abbey Ruins.
What is special about Laon Old Town?
Laon Old Town — Murals and Fortifications is historically significant, perched on a table mountain, and boasts the largest contiguous protected area in France. It features many medieval buildings, including its famous cathedral, and offers a glimpse into a fortified past.
Can I see any medieval city gates?
Yes, Laon, near Colligis-Crandelain, has well-preserved medieval city gates. The Porte d'Ardon, dating from the 13th and 14th centuries, is a notable example with its châtelet and portcullis. Another is the Porte de Soissons, one of the three remaining city gates, built in the early 13th century.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Colligis-Crandelain?
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich historical and architectural heritage. The early Gothic architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral and the extensive medieval structures of Laon Old Town are highly rated. The serene and historical atmosphere of the Vauclair Abbey Ruins also receives positive feedback, with many photos shared by the komoot community.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Colligis-Crandelain?
Many historical sites, such as the Vauclair Abbey Ruins, are considered family-friendly, offering space to explore and learn about history. The surrounding natural areas and various cycling and running routes also provide opportunities for families to enjoy the outdoors together.
Where can I find more information about the Eglise Saint-Martin de Colligis-Crandelain?
For more details about the Eglise Saint-Martin de Colligis-Crandelain, including its Romanesque bell tower and Gothic vault, you can visit the local tourism website: tourisme-paysdelaon.com.
What is the Caverne du Dragon, Musée du Chemin des Dames?
The Caverne du Dragon, Musée du Chemin des Dames, located in Oulches-la-Vallée-Foulon, offers insights into the history of the Chemin des Dames, a significant site from World War I. It provides a deeper understanding of the region's more recent historical context.
Can I combine a visit to historical sites with outdoor activities?
Absolutely. The region is ideal for combining historical exploration with outdoor pursuits. For example, you can visit the Vauclair Abbey Ruins and then explore the surrounding monastic forest or embark on one of the nearby cycling or running routes that often pass by historical landmarks.
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