Former Rousselot house known as Maison Bouday in Montbozon - Town of character - Ognon ValleyFormer Rousselot house known as Maison Bouday in Montbozon - Town of character - Ognon Valley
©Montbozon|Office de tourisme du Pays des 7 Rivières

Montbozon

Montbozon is one of the Cités de Caractère in Burgundy-Franche-Comté. With the river Ognon running through it, this town offers an idyllic setting for a rejuvenating getaway.

Logo for the Ognon Valley destination in Haute-Saône - Long white versionLogo for the Ognon Valley destination in Haute-Saône - Long white version
©Vallée de l'Ognon white logo

A fascinating past

The history of Montbozon dates back to prehistoric times, with the discovery of a Neolithic settlement. Occupied for thousands of years, the region was settled by the Montbozon family in the 12th century. This family owned a provostry that extended over more than 70 villages, illustrating the importance of Montbozon in local history.

Along the streets

Take a stroll through the narrow streets of Montbozon and you’ll be amazed by its rich architectural heritage. One of the must-sees is the former Maison Rousselot. Built in the 16th century by Léonard Rousselot, this fortified house was sold to the Jesuits in 1602 and became a college. Now listed as a Historic Monument, it features an inner courtyard with a Renaissance façade and fortified towers. If you’re a curiosity-seeker, don’t miss the wall of crucifixes, an unusual detail that never fails to amaze.

The fortified house, rebuilt at the end of the 17th century on the ruins of a former castle, dominates the village. At its foot, a charming early 19th-century fountain, adorned with an elegant swan, serves as both a wash-house and a drinking trough.

Legend has it that Napoleon III gave his horse a drink from this spring during the Prussian campaign.

In Montbozon Religious heritage well worth a visit

Montbozon is also rich in religious heritage. Founded between the 13th and 15th centuries, the Dominican convent once housed a hospice. Although only the choir remains of the convent church, these remains bear witness to the historical importance of this place. The Church of the Nativity of Notre-Dame, partly rebuilt in the 18th century and listed as a Historic Monument, is also worth a visit. Here you will find carved wooden stalls from the 16th century and paintings from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries.

A municipality with the label

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©Character towns of Burgundy-Franche-Comté

Stay In Montbozon

Remarkable towns to discover In Haute-Saône