The city of Chambery, located at the gateway to the Alps, is an excellent place to stopover before beginning an exploration of the alpine villages of the Savoie region. Famous as the seat of the Savoy region's dukes from the 13th century, the city prides itself on the large Château des Ducs de Savoie, which dominates the city skyline, and was once home to the shroud of Turin.
The historical city centre of Chambery is now a pedestrianised quarter. The pleasant place Saint Leger, is the heart of the old town, and many of the city's sights can be visited on foot from there. Wander through the narrow alleys around the place, and you will see well-preserved 13th century architecture in the rue Juiverie and the rue du Sénat. Highlights of the quarter are the mansions in the rue Croix d'Or. For examples of the 17th century splendour of Chambéry, stop by the Flaming Heart fountain at the Hôtel de la Pérouse, the remarkable inner staircase of the Hôtel des Marches and the railings of the Hotel de Châteauneuf.
Chambery offers several museums, including a country house where Jean-Jacques Rousseau once stayed. The Jardin des Charmettes is a botanical garden attached to the Rosseau museum, which displays an 18th century collection of medicinal plants. Situated in a Franciscan convent, the Musée Savoisien offers insights into the history and culture of the Savoie region, including art, archeology, ethnographic displays and an exhibition in remembrance of the Second World War.
Chambery is also an area that is focused on new technology. Just south of the Lac du Bourget, the Technopôle Savoie Technolac is home to over 150 technology companies and 15 research labs. The Eureka Mountain Centre Gallery is an educational centre that is focused on promoting scientific, technical and industrial culture, and includes 14 scientific exhibits, models, experiments and games.
