Senones
A town with a princely past and natural charm
A remarkable historical past
Senones is best known for having been the capital of the principality of Salm-Salm from the Middle Ages to the French Revolution. This status led to significant economic and cultural development, as well as an architectural heritage that still bears witness to this bygone era.
The Saint-Pierre de Senones abbey is one of the most emblematic vestiges of this history. Founded in the 7th century, it was a major intellectual and spiritual center. In the Age of Enlightenment, it was a renowned place of exchange and study, welcoming in particular Dom Augustin Calmet, a Benedictine scholar renowned for his work on the Bible and local history.
A rich architectural and cultural heritage
In addition to its abbey, Senones boasts a number of remarkable buildings, including the château des Princes de Salm and numerous middle-class residences dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. All these buildings contribute to the town's historic cachet.
The town also organizes a variety of cultural and historical events highlighting its past. History buffs can discover the remains of the princely era through guided tours and exhibitions.
A natural setting in the heart of the Vosges mountains
Senones not only attracts visitors with its heritage, but also with its exceptional natural environment. Nestled in the Rabodeau valley, it is surrounded by forests and mountains offering a wealth of opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. Nature lovers will find it an ideal setting for hiking, mountain biking and even climbing.
The nearby Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park also offers visitors the chance to discover a wealth of flora and fauna, as well as a varied landscape of deep forests, winding rivers and peaks offering breathtaking panoramas.
A welcoming place to live
Despite its small size, Senones is a dynamic town where life is good. Local shops, a weekly market and local events all contribute to creating a warm and friendly atmosphere. Senones' residents, attached to their heritage and living environment, play an active role in preserving and enhancing their town.
Between history and nature, Senones is an ideal destination for those seeking a place that is both rich in its past and oriented towards a peaceful way of life. Whether you're a history buff, a hiking enthusiast or simply in search of authenticity, this charming Vosges town is sure to please.
Senones, Land of filming
Senones is gradually establishing itself as a popular destination for film shoots. Its rich architectural heritage, notably Senones Abbey, provides an authentic setting steeped in history, ideal for period productions.
Among notable productions, the series “Les Combattantes”, broadcast on TF1 in 2022, used Senones to recreate exterior scenes of the convent-hospital, the gendarmerie and the village, helping to immerse viewers in the atmosphere of the First World War.
In 2021, the fan film “Frenchie”, directed by Anthony Lecomte, was also shot in Senones, showcasing the town's historic settings.
Senones
If you'd like to find out more about the town's history, please visit the Senones, Pays des Abbayes and Vosges Porte d'Alsace websites.