Discover the authentic culture of the Savoie region

Welcome to the Savoy pre-alps, a hidden treasure of French heritage. This region is rich in cultural heritage. It offers a unique experience, immersed in local traditions.

The Savoy pre-alps is a true melting pot of creativity. With 214 cultural actors listed, it is a place for the preservation of Savoy heritage. From centuries-old abbeys to dynamic associations, every corner breathes authenticity.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious, the Savoy pre-alps will charm you. Iconic sites like the Abbey of La Rochette sit alongside artisan shops. The latter testify to the cultural diversity of the region.

Prepare for a captivating journey through time and traditions. Each village, from Belmont-Tramonet to Saint-Jean-de-Chevelu, tells a unique story of Savoy's cultural heritage.

The historical treasures of the Savoy pre-alps

The Savoy pre-alps is a gold mine for lovers of historical monuments and tourist sites. With its 434 km² and 46 municipalities, it offers a journey through medieval heritage. Here are three jewels that illustrate the cultural richness of this region.

The Abbey of La Rochette: a medieval heritage

In Belmont-Tramonet, the Abbey of La Rochette is a shining testament to medieval heritage. Dating back to the Middle Ages, this historical monument allows visitors to discover the religious architecture of the time.

The Commandery of Saint John of Jerusalem in Les Échelles

In Les Échelles, the Commandery of Saint John of Jerusalem is a symbol of the region's strategic importance. Its history is deeply rooted in the religious and military orders that shaped Savoy.

The Château de Montfleury in Avressieux

The Château de Montfleury, located in Avressieux, completes this trio of historical treasures. This imposing building offers a magnificent panorama of the landscapes of the Savoy pre-alps, ranging from plains to mountain peaks.

These historical treasures, located in a territory populated by 30,324 inhabitants in 2015, showcase the diversity of medieval heritage of the Savoy pre-alps. They are essential for those seeking to explore the cultural riches of this unique region.

The cultural richness of the Savoy pre-alps

The Savoy pre-alps is a cultural gold mine, enriching Savoy's cultural life. Situated at an average altitude of 600 meters, it provides an environment conducive to exploring Savoy craftsmanship. It also invites participation in various local events.

Dynamic cultural associations

Cultural associations, such as Alchimie in Saint-Béron, Artistes de Chartreuse in Saint-Christophe-sur-Guiers, and the Chartrouz'Art Association in Entre-deux-Guiers, energize the region. They organize exhibitions, workshops, and events throughout the year, enriching local cultural life.

Traditional and festive events

Savoy's cultural life is animated by a multitude of traditional events. From local festivals to artisan markets, these local events attract visitors and residents alike. Mont Tournier, rising to 877 meters, provides a majestic setting for some outdoor festivities.

Local artists and their craftsmanship

Savoy craftsmanship is renowned for the talent of its local artists. The Atelier CéraMique in Saint-Christophe-sur-Guiers and the Artisan Boutique of the Entremonts in Saint-Pierre-d'Entremont are must-visit places. Visitors can admire and purchase unique creations that showcase local know-how.

For hiking enthusiasts, the Savoy pre-alps offers a variety of trails. The GR9, over 1000 km long, crosses the region. Shorter routes, from 13 to 26 km, are perfect for discovering local cultural heritage on foot.

Religious and architectural heritage

The Savoy pre-alps is rich in religious buildings that tell a deep story. These monuments reflect Savoy architecture, unique and captivating. They constitute a fascinating religious heritage.

The classified church of Yenne

Yenne is home to a classified church, a jewel of local heritage. Its remarkable Savoy architecture attracts many visitors. The architectural details and the history of this sacred place captivate art and history enthusiasts.

The chapel of Notre Dame de la Montagne

The chapel of Notre Dame de la Montagne, perched on the heights of Yenne, offers breathtaking views. This picturesque site combines spirituality and natural beauty, highlighting arts and cultures. It perfectly embodies the charm of Savoy religious buildings.

The sundials of Rochefort

Rochefort stands out for its sundials, unique elements of local architectural heritage. These functional works of art adorn the facades, blending aesthetics and ingenuity. Their presence testifies to the artisanal skills of the region.

These architectural treasures illustrate the diversity of religious heritage in the Savoy pre-alps. Each site tells a part of local history. They invite discovery and contemplation.

Vibrant cultural spaces

The Savoy pre-alps is rich in dynamic cultural venues, offering a diverse range of cultural activities. This region, known for its beauty, hosts a variety of performances. These events reflect the depth of its artistic heritage.

Local cinemas play a vital role in cultural life. The Cinéma Atmosphère in Saint-Genix-les-Villages, classified as Art & Essai, offers a selection of quality films. It has a 147-seat auditorium. In Pont-de-Beauvoisin, the Cinéma le Diamant, with its two screens, facilitates access for people with reduced mobility.

Theater is also present with local companies such as “the cat with big ears” in Yenne. They passionately animate the stage. The Commercial and Artisan Space of the Baronnie in Le Pont-de-Beauvoisin stands out as a meeting place. It combines culture and commerce.

The diversity of cultural events and cultural spaces is impressive. Over a given period, more than 200 events have been recorded. These events range from drawing workshops to jazz concerts, including exhibitions and artisan markets.

These cultural venues demonstrate the commitment of local communities and artists. They aim to keep art and culture alive in the Savoy pre-alps. They offer residents and visitors a rich and varied cultural experience. This experience is rooted in local traditions while opening up to the world.

Artisanal and gastronomic traditions

The Savoy pre-alps is a gold mine for lovers of gastronomy and craftsmanship. Savoy gastronomy, with its many facets, reveals itself through authentic products and ancestral know-how. This culinary heritage is a true treasure, reflecting the richness of the region.

The Brotherhood of St Genix Cake

In Saint-Genix-les-Villages, the Brotherhood of the Cake celebrates an exceptional pastry tradition. The pink praline cake, a symbol of the region, is a must-try in Savoy gastronomy. It embodies the passion for culinary art and tradition.

Authentic local producers

Producers in the Savoy pre-alps offer an impressive variety of artisanal products. Here you will find jams, honeys, syrups, craft beers, genepi, and Chartreuse. These artisans, dedicated to their craft, value local resources and pass down ancient recipes.

The artisan shops of the Entremonts

The artisan shops in the region showcase local craftsmanship. In Saint-Pierre-d'Entremont, the Boutique des Entremonts displays unique creations. The Tourist Office of Lake Aiguebelette in Nances also offers a selection of local products, reflecting local craftsmanship.

The gastronomy and craftsmanship of the Savoy pre-alps offer an unforgettable sensory journey. Each product tells a story, that of a preserved terroir and a know-how passed down through generations.

The network of libraries and cultural centers

The Savoy pre-alps, composed of 34 municipalities and populated by 25,000 inhabitants, stands out for its network of public reading and cultural centers. This network, coordinated by the Mixed Syndicate of the Savoy Pre-Alps (SMAPS), is essential for the cultural animation of the territory.

The Guiers Library

The Guiers Library, located in Saint-Genix-les-Villages, is a pillar of public reading in the region. It organizes various events, such as BiblioPitch, a cooperation day involving 3 female authors and 1 male youth author. These meetings, held remotely from 9:45 AM to 12:30 PM, foster exchanges between professionals and readers.

The AEL Sociocultural Center

The AEL Sociocultural Center - Acting Together Locally in Novalaise plays a major role in cultural animation. It offers a variety of activities, enriching the cultural life of Savoy centers. Its program, developed in collaboration with SMAPS, meets the needs of the 25,000 inhabitants of the Savoy pre-alps.

The municipal media libraries

The public reading network extends to the municipal media libraries of Domessin, La Bridoire, and Saint-Béron. These structures, supported by SMAPS, provide easy access to culture. The Rézo Lire system allows online catalog consultation, document reservations, and loan management, strengthening the cultural fabric of the territory.