A medieval and Renaissance town, open to visitors year-round for self-guided tours, with guided tours available during the tourist season.
Besse is one of the Puy-de-Dôme’s officially designated “Petites Cités de Caractère” (Small Towns of Character). This prestigious label highlights the authenticity and rich heritage of small towns renowned for their well-preserved and harmonious architectural character.
The medieval town of Besse is renowned for its remarkable architectural heritage, which blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings. Saint Andrew’s Church, the Bailiff’s Castle, the Belfry, the Renaissance fountains, the Sainte-Marie des Remparts Manor, and the cobbled streets lined with traditional shops are all built from the region’s distinctive volcanic stone.
Closely linked to the history of France and the French monarchy, Besse remained one of the strongholds of the Medici family for many years.