The best cycling routes around Mortiers

Imagined in the 19th century by the industrialist Jean-Baptiste André Godin, the Familistère de Guise is a unique place in France. Conceived as a true “social palace” for the workers of his factory, this architectural complex combines housing, collective spaces, and cultural facilities. Today transformed into a museum and visitor site, the place offers an immersion into the social and industrial history of the Hauts-de-France region.

The charming Romanesque chapel of the Templars is located in the museum park. The Order of the Temple was founded in 1128 and the bishop of Laon favored their installation in the city on land belonging to the king of France, located south of the canons' enclosure. The Saint-Jean-Baptiste chapel was erected around 1140: the octagon and the choir are the oldest parts; the porch was added a few decades later.

Ardon Gate

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.

When you enter, take note of the well-preserved death statue of Guillaume de Harcigny (14th century). This healer learned his trade from Arab doctors in Syria. He was the personal physician of Charles VI and a psychoanalyst avant la lettre. The commandery of the Order of the Temple dates from the 12th century, housed the administration and served as a recruitment centre for monks-knights. After the order was abolished, the commandery came into the hands of the Hospitallers of Jerusalem. The cemetery of the Templars is now a garden. The Romanesque chapel with its bell tower and a choir that ends in an apse with a semi-dome are well preserved. Inside, you can see two statues of prophets from the facade of the cathedral.

The Palais de Justice in Laon, also known as the former Bishop's Palace, is a historic building that now serves as a courthouse. It is located on Place Aubry, next to Laon Cathedral. The building has a rich history dating back to the 6th century, when it was originally built as a bishop's palace. Over the centuries, it has undergone several renovations and extensions, particularly after being damaged during the fiscal revolt of 1112.

Viewpoint with bench and binoculars overlooking the vast surroundings.

The Guise Familistère, located in the commune of Guise, wanted by the industrialist Godin for the accommodation of his workers.