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Fun facts & legends • In 1789, the police wanted to put up fences because the alley was notorious as a meeting place for lovers. • A local legend tells of a pregnant woman who was miraculously saved when a wall “moved aside” in front of her belly. • The street is also said to have played a role during epidemics: the many cats helped keep rat populations under control. Why visit? • Very photogenic: One of the most photographed places in Troyes – often featured on postcards. • Historic and romantic: Perfect for those who love medieval towns and hidden gems. • Nearby: You’ll also find cozy cafés and a cat café (“Troyes Petits Chats”), plus a pretty courtyard called Cour du Mortier d’Or and the Jardin Juvénal-des-Ursins.

The Ruelle des Chats, or Cat Alley, is one of the most charming and famous streets in the old town of Troyes, located in the Champagne region of France. ⸻ 🏛️ History & Architecture • Medieval origins: The alley dates back to the 15th century and was rebuilt after a major fire in 1524. • Why the name “Cat Alley”?: The houses are built so that their upper floors almost lean against each other. It is said that a cat could jump from one roof to the other — hence the name. • Typical half-timbering: The street is paved with a gutter in the middle for rainwater, and the houses are half-timbered with wooden beams that stabilize the whole. ⸻ 🌆 Atmosphere & charm • Romantic appearance: The narrow passage and leaning facades create a mysterious, almost fairytale-like atmosphere. • Reconstruction: In 2014, several half-timbered houses were rebuilt based on old prints and photos. • Preserved thanks to heritage protection: In the 1960s, the street was saved from demolition by the efforts of heritage organisations and Minister André Malraux.

This church is characterized by its Gothic architecture. Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, it is distinguished by its impressive statuary and remarkable stained glass windows. Its most famous treasure is the 16th century entombment, a masterpiece of religious sculpture.

Visitors are invited to discover a permanent exhibition composed of unique stained glass windows, from different periods, functions and styles. This accessible and sensitive journey aims to dust off the image of stained glass and address its multiple stylistic, historical, technical and iconographic aspects.

Don't miss the interior courtyards accessible from the alley

Troyes is one of the cities in France which has managed to keep its architectural heritage from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance intact. Strolling through the pedestrian streets of this city is a feast for the eyes. The number of half-timbered houses is impressive. We owe this wealth in part to the important fairs of the past and also to the textile industry.

On the edge of a vast forest, the village of Chaource is known for its arboretum which you can visit within the professional forestry school. The town is also known for its Saint-Jean Baptiste church which contains reliquary treasures as well as a very beautiful statue of the Virgin. The village is recognized worldwide for its creamy and firm cheese: Chaource.

It is a 16th century church which has a rich collection of statues, paintings and stained glass windows. Dedicated to Saint Martin, patron saint of travelers, the church has a remarkable facade with two equestrian statues in his likeness, two Annunciations and a rose window. You can admire the architecture and art inside the church, as well as the gargoyles and stone sculptures outside.