Our region

Preserved over the centuries, Dijon—“City of Art and History”—is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful historic towns in France. Known as the “city of a hundred bell towers,” as François I once called it, Dijon has been shaped by a rich and vibrant past. The “City of Art and History” department will soon open a Territorial Interpretation Center.

In 2008, the city of Dijon was awarded the “City of Art and History” label by the Ministry of Culture and Communication. This distinction recognizes the city’s committed efforts in the knowledge, preservation, and enhancement of its exceptional architectural and cultural heritage.

The city and the Ministry of Culture signed an agreement that defines the objectives of the “City of Art and History” label within Dijon’s policy for a period of 10 years.

Dijon is committed to employing qualified professionals (heritage facilitators and certified tour guides) and to establishing a Center for the Interpretation of Architecture and Heritage.

As the capital of historic Burgundy, Dijon stands as a harmonious and lively city shaped by an exceptionally rich history in two major chapters: the era of the great Dukes of Burgundy (1363 to 1477), who made it a center of international art and a European capital ahead of its time; followed by the period of the Burgundy Parliament and its parliamentarians, who influenced the city over three centuries, shaping it between the Palace of the States and its numerous private mansions. From this history, Dijon has inherited an extraordinary and densely packed architectural heritage.

Proud of its cultural heritage, recognized by UNESCO, and firmly focused on innovation, the city of Dijon is today a leading figure in gastronomy and wine in France and worldwide.

In 2021, the International City of Gastronomy and Wine opened its doors in Dijon. Its mission is to promote the French Gastronomic Meal and highlight the Climats of the Burgundy vineyards, both inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. This symbolic site is located right at the first kilometer of the Route des Grands Crus. This vibrant space attracts one million visitors each year.

Dijon’s history is closely linked to the great wines of Burgundy. Until the last third of the 19th century, the Dijon slopes even produced some grand crus. Vineyards once flourished in every district. Vine pests and urbanization marked the end of this golden age… Today, the Dijon vineyard is experiencing a revival. The acquisition of the La Cras estate (Bourgogne AOC) and the planting of new vines within the urban area mark this rebirth of the Côte de Dijon.

The capital of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté truly has a taste for excellence!

Not only in its renowned specialties such as mustard, gingerbread, and crème de cassis, nor just in its Michelin-starred restaurants… Dijon also embraces the taste of gastronomic events: the International and Gastronomic Fair, the Brunch des Halles, and the gourmet archives of the municipal library all position Dijon as the natural capital of taste.