Saint-Marcellin-en-Forez


The township of Saint-Marcellin is an invitation to travel through the ages. This village in the upper part of the Forez region has crossed the centuries as numerous buildings show but not without a certain amount of troubles and wounds. A small hamlet in Gallo-Roman times it was then besieged by the Saracens in the C.7th and the ramparts dating from the C.12th and C.15th did not prevent the town from being pillaged.
In spite of all the perils it had to face, Saint-Marcellin-en-Forez has preserved some little architectural treasures such as the Devil’s Bridge, classified as a historic monument. The church too is a little jewel not to be missed. Built for the most part in the C.12th , it has a Romanesque facade while its belfry is Gothic in style. The mixture of styles gives a particular charm and allure. Above the village the chapel of Saint Catherine dating from the C.12th stands proudly. Romanesque in style, it gives a little sober touch to the countryside.
As for activities, several rendez-vous are given to tourists throughout the year. In February, a carnival plunges the town into a universe of masks and bright colours. In May the Trois Clochers rally brings together car racer from the whole region. In June, dancing takes over with a big festival and troupes everywhere in the village. And finally, in November, the tournament of the Club des Chiffres et des Lettres ( the figures and letters club) ends the series of festivities.


Information
Town Hall: tel: 04 77 36 10 90