The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, located in the heart of southeastern France, is a land where history, culture, and nature intertwine beautifully. Its roots stretch back to ancient times — from Roman settlements in Lyon (once Lugdunum, the capital of Roman Gaul) to medieval castles perched on volcanic hills in Auvergne. The region’s history reflects centuries of trade, craftsmanship, and innovation, shaped by both the rugged Massif Central and the majestic Alps.

During the Middle Ages, Auvergne’s fortified villages and Romanesque churches flourished, while cities like Lyon became powerful centers of silk production and Renaissance art. In modern times, the area grew into a dynamic hub of science, gastronomy, and outdoor adventure.

Today, traveling through Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is like journeying through time — from ancient ruins and baroque cathedrals to thermal spas and modern alpine resorts — all surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage.