Best attractions and places to see around Presles-Et-Thierny include a variety of historical and architectural sites, primarily located in the nearby city of Laon. This region features medieval structures, ancient city gates, and significant religious buildings. The elevated old town of Laon, situated on a table mountain, offers a unique historical landscape to explore.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Presles-Et-Thierny.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The Porte d’Ardon is one of the medieval city gates of Laon. The current structure dates from the 13th and 14th centuries. Originally, this gate was called “Porte Royée” because of its proximity to the royal palace of Laon. The gate consists of a châtelet with a portcullis and used to have doors. There was also a barbican, but this has now disappeared. Under the gate there was a fountain and wash houses, some of which still exist. The Porte d’Ardon was classified as a historical monument in 1909.
9
0
The Porte de Soissons is a medieval city gate in Laon. It is one of the three remaining city gates of Laon and was built at the beginning of the 13th century when the fortifications were resumed. The gate is located in the south-west of the medieval city and is built of sandstone and limestone. The gate was originally known as the Porte Saint-Martin or Soibert, but was later renamed after the nearby town of Soissons. The rear of the gate (which was demolished in 1895) offers a cross-section of this type of defensive system: a vaulted room on the first floor, giving access to the harrow and the machicolation.
12
1
A remarkable remnant of what was once a large and important abbey. Caesar, Napoleon and German troops are said to have passed through this area during the First World War.
3
0
This abbey, which was founded in 1134 by St. Bernard, was severely damaged in a bombardment in 1917. The best preserved buildings are the pantry, the refectory of the lay brothers, the chapter house and the monks' hall. The foundations of the abbey church and the inn are still visible. Next to the garden with medicinal plants there is an exhibition space. Surrounding it is the monastic forest of Vauvelair, which covers 1000 hectares.
11
0
Between the woods and the greenway, this former abbey is interesting from a historical point of view
0
0
Here, the city walker will find an early masterpiece of Gothic architecture, a style often found in this part of France – Chartres and Reims, for example, attract enthusiastic international visitors and are far more famous than Laon. In the following 13th century, many Gothic churches were built, not only in their country of origin, France, but also beyond the country's borders, where this sky-high, light-filled architectural style was now in great demand for new churches (for example, the laying of the foundation stone for Cologne Cathedral in 1248).
3
0
Loan is a medieval town on a mesa. A trip is very worthwhile! I would always prefer visiting Reims.
1
1
The region is rich in history, primarily centered around the nearby city of Laon. You can explore the ruins of Vauclair Abbey, founded in 1134, which still features preserved buildings like the pantry and refectory. Additionally, Laon Old Town itself is a significant historical site with many medieval buildings and fortifications.
Yes, the most prominent religious building is Notre-Dame Cathedral in Laon. It is one of France's oldest Gothic structures, built between 1155 and 1235, known for its multiple towers and monumental west facade.
Absolutely. Laon's old town is famous for its medieval fortifications. You can visit well-preserved city gates such as Porte d'Ardon, dating from the 13th and 14th centuries, and Porte de Soissons, built in the early 13th century. These gates offer a glimpse into the region's defensive past.
Beyond exploring historical sites, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. The area offers excellent opportunities for gravel biking, road cycling, and running. For detailed routes, you can check out the guides for Gravel biking around Presles-Et-Thierny and Road Cycling Routes around Presles-Et-Thierny.
Yes, there are several running trails directly around Presles-Et-Thierny. Popular routes include 'Une plaine au milieu de rien – Le vieux Ford loop' and 'Follow the Right Marker loop', both offering moderate difficulty. You can find more options in the Running Trails around Presles-Et-Thierny guide.
Yes, Vauclair Abbey Ruins is considered family-friendly. Its expansive grounds and historical significance can be an engaging experience for all ages, especially with the preserved buildings and visible foundations of the abbey church.
The region is generally pleasant to visit from spring through early autumn (April to October) when the weather is mild and conducive for exploring historical sites and engaging in outdoor activities. Summer months offer longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery.
Laon Old Town is unique because it's built on a table mountain, offering panoramic views and a distinct historical landscape. It boasts the largest contiguous protected area in France, filled with medieval buildings, fortifications, and even interesting murals in its side alleys.
While the main attractions are well-known, exploring the smaller details within Laon Old Town can reveal hidden gems. For instance, near Porte d'Ardon, you can find remnants of old wash houses and a fountain, offering a glimpse into daily life from centuries past.
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich historical context and the well-preserved medieval architecture. The grandeur of Notre-Dame Cathedral, the evocative ruins of Vauclair Abbey, and the impressive city gates like Porte d'Ardon are frequently highlighted for their historical significance and visual appeal.
Laon, where most of the key attractions are located, has local public transport options. While Presles-Et-Thierny itself is a smaller commune, you would typically use regional transport to reach Laon, and then local buses or walking to navigate within the city and its elevated old town.
Yes, Laon Old Town, situated on a hill, offers several points from which you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The elevated position provides excellent photo opportunities and a sense of the region's geography.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: