Valence history

Foundation and Antiquity

The history of Valence is rooted in deep antiquity. The city was founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC under the name Valentia, which translates from Latin as "strong" or "powerful". The settlement emerged on lands previously inhabited by Gallic tribes and quickly acquired the status of an important Roman colony in Gallia Narbonensis.

Key Factors of Development

The rapid development of the city was facilitated by a successful combination of geographical and infrastructural factors that made it a strategically important point on the regional map:

• Geography: The city was built on natural terraces rising above the Rhône River. This provided protection against floods and offered a good vantage point for defence.
• Transport Routes: Valence was located at the intersection of key roads, including the famous Via Agrippa, which connected Lyon with Arles and the Mediterranean.
• River Trade: The Rhône served as the main transport artery for moving goods, which turned the city into a bustling trade hub.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In the first centuries AD, Valence developed as a classic Gallo-Roman city with advanced urban infrastructure, including forums and temples. The economy was based on trade and the agriculture of the fertile valley.

An important stage in cultural life was the early adoption of Christianity. By the 4th century, the city had become the seat of a bishop, securing its status as an administrative and spiritual centre that was maintained throughout the Middle Ages.

Major Historical Milestones

• 1st Century BC — Foundation of the Roman colony Valentia on the strategically important Via Agrippa trade route.
• 374 — First documentary mention of the Bishop of Valence, cementing the city's status as a religious centre.
• 413 — The city becomes the scene of the fall of the Roman usurper Jovinus, who was besieged and captured here by the Visigoths.
• 1029 — Secular power over the city passes to the bishops, sparking a long rivalry with the Counts of Valentinois.
• 1452 — Dauphin Louis (the future King Louis XI) founds the University of Valence, which quickly gained a high reputation in Europe.
• 1498 — King Louis XII of France grants the title of Duke of Valentinois to Cesare Borgia.
• 1530s — Construction of the "House of Heads" (Maison des Têtes), which became the architectural symbol of the Renaissance in the city.
• 1562 — During the Wars of Religion, the city is captured by Protestant troops led by the Baron des Adrets.
• 1785 — A young Napoleon Bonaparte arrives in Valence to serve in the artillery regiment with the rank of lieutenant.
• 1790 — Valence officially becomes the administrative centre (prefecture) of the newly formed Drôme department.
• 1799 — Pope Pius VI dies in the city fortress while being held captive by the French Directory.
• 1854 — The opening of rail services on the Paris-Lyon-Marseille line gives a powerful boost to industrial development.
• 1944 — The city is subjected to massive Allied bombings prior to its liberation from occupation.
• 2001 — Launch of the TGV station in the city's vicinity, integrating Valence into Europe's high-speed rail network.

Stages of Development and Transformation

The evolution of Valence is a journey from a strategic military outpost to a modern transport and cultural hub. Below are the key moments that defined the city's modern appearance and status:

• Creation of the University (1452)
  The founding of the university by Dauphin Louis turned Valence into the intellectual capital of the region. The influx of students and eminent professors (including Jacques Cujas and François Rabelais) stimulated the development of printing and services, and strengthened the city's reputation as a centre of legal science in Europe.
• Architectural Flourishing of the Renaissance (16th Century)
  A period of economic prosperity marked a radical change in the urban environment. Wealthy merchants and officials built luxurious mansions, such as the famous "House of Heads". This gave the city the sophisticated architectural look that forms the basis of its tourist appeal today.
• Formation of the Canal Network
  A unique system of canals totalling over 40 km, created by monks in the Middle Ages and expanded later, became the foundation for the development of agriculture and crafts (mills, workshops). Today, this "green network" is a vital environmental and recreational asset for the city.
• 19th Century Urban Planning Reform
  The demolition of old fortress walls and their replacement with wide boulevards radically changed the structure of Valence. The city "opened up", gaining spacious promenades and the ability to expand beyond the historical core, which improved sanitary conditions and transport accessibility.
• Railway Revolution and Industrialisation
  Connection to the Paris-Lyon-Marseille (PLM) railway line in the mid-19th century gave a powerful impetus to industry. Valence strengthened its position as a trade hub of the Rhône Valley, leading to population growth and the emergence of new industrial districts.
• Rise as a Gastronomic Centre (20th Century)
  The development of the legendary Pic dynasty of chefs transformed Valence into an essential destination on the global gastronomic map. This shaped the city's image as a centre of elite tourism and haute cuisine, attracting travellers heading to the south of France.
• Launch of Valence TGV Station (2001)
  The opening of the high-speed train station became the main economic driver of recent times. This event reduced travel time to Paris to 2 hours, attracted business investments, and facilitated the creation of a technology park, firmly establishing Valence's status as the "Gateway to Provence".

Urban Structure and Landscape

The architectural appearance of Valence is unique due to its location on four natural terraces descending to the Rhône River. This predetermined the city's development: from the historical centre on the upper terrace ("Upper Town") to the port and artisan quarters by the water. A walk through Valence is a visual guide to architectural history, where austere medieval walls sit alongside elegant Renaissance facades and wide 19th-century boulevards.

The Middle Ages and Romanesque Style (11th–15th Centuries)

The oldest surviving structures in the city date back to the Middle Ages. During this period, the city formed around the religious centre, maintaining dense buildings and narrow winding streets.

• Cathedral of Saint Apollinaris (Cathédrale Saint-Apollinaire): The main monument of the era, consecrated in 1095. It is a striking example of the Romanesque style with influences from Auvergne architectural traditions. The building is distinguished by its massiveness, use of light stone (molasse), and polychrome decor.
• Church of Saint-Jean (Église Saint-Jean): Preserves a 12th-century Romanesque bell tower, although the building itself has been rebuilt multiple times.

Renaissance: Architectural Flourishing (16th Century)

The 16th century became a "Golden Age" for Valence. Thanks to the presence of the university and wealthy merchants, the city was adorned with luxurious mansions. The style of this period is characterised by a transition from Gothic verticality to antique harmony and rich decoration.

• House of Heads (Maison des Têtes): A jewel of early 16th-century architecture (circa 1530). The building's facade, executed in a style marking a vibrant transition from Gothic to Renaissance, is decorated with numerous sculpted heads symbolising the winds, fortune, and time.
• Draper's House (Maison du Drapier): An example of a 13th-century merchant's house that was renovated in the Renaissance style, preserving its medieval foundation but acquiring a more elegant facade.

Classicism and 19th Century Reconstruction

In the 19th century, Valence, like many French cities, underwent a massive urban transformation. Fortress walls were demolished, giving way to wide boulevards, which opened the city to light and space.

• Boulevards: A ring of boulevards appeared on the site of former fortifications, lined with buildings in the style of Haussmann classicism and eclecticism.
• Peynet Bandstand (Kiosque Peynet): Built in 1862, this musical pavilion became the symbol of the city. It is designed in a romantic style, combining the lightness of metal structures with elegant decor, and later became famous thanks to the illustrations of Raymond Peynet.
• City Theatre: A building in the Italian style, erected in 1837, reflecting the desire for cultural entertainment.

Modernity and Integration with Nature

In the 20th and 21st centuries, the architecture of Valence developed towards functionalism and environmental sustainability. Special attention is paid to preserving historical heritage and revitalising natural zones.

• Monumental Fountain (Fontaine Monumentale): A structure from the late 19th century that remains an important urban accent connecting different eras.
• Canal System: The unique network of medieval canals has been refined and turned into green pedestrian routes, harmoniously weaving water arteries into the modern urban fabric.

Famous Personalities of Valence

The history and modernity of Valence are inextricably linked with the names of people who left a bright mark on politics, art, gastronomy, and sport. From emperors to world-class chefs, these figures shaped the unique character of the city.

• Napoleon Bonaparte (Napoléon Bonaparte)
  Emperor of France, Military Commander
  The future emperor lived in Valence in his youth, from 1785 to 1791 (with interruptions), serving in the La Fère artillery regiment with the rank of lieutenant. It was here that he began his self-education, studying history and geography, and gained his first military experience.
• Anne-Sophie Pic
  Chef, Restaurateur
  A native of Valence and a representative of a legendary culinary dynasty. She is the only French female chef to hold three Michelin stars for her family restaurant Maison Pic. Thanks to her, Valence is considered one of the gastronomic capitals of France.
• Raymond Peynet
  Artist and Illustrator
  In 1942, while sitting in front of the musical bandstand in Valence, Peynet drew his famous characters — "The Lovers" (Les Amoureux). This image brought him worldwide fame, and the bandstand, which became a symbol of the city, now bears his name (Kiosque Peynet).
• Pius VI (Pape Pie VI)
  Pope
  The Pontiff was taken to France by the troops of the Directory and died in Valence in 1799, while imprisoned in the city citadel. Although his body was later transported to the Vatican, his heart and internal organs remained to rest in the Cathedral of Saint Apollinaris, according to his will.
• François Rabelais
  Humanist Writer, Physician
  The author of "Gargantua and Pantagruel" studied law at the University of Valence in the 1530s. His stay in the city and the academic environment of that time influenced his worldview and work.
• Sébastien Chabal
  Rugby Player
  The famous athlete, nicknamed "The Caveman" for his rugged image and style of play, was born in Valence. He is one of the most recognisable French athletes of the 21st century.
• Louis Mandrin
  Folk Hero, Smuggler
  The "French Robin Hood" of the 18th century, who fought against the unjust taxes of the royal tax farming system. His life ended tragically in Valence: in 1755, he was executed on Place Clerc, which became a major historical event in the region.
• Paul Ricœur
  Philosopher
  One of the leading French philosophers of the 20th century, who worked on questions of phenomenology and hermeneutics, was born in Valence in 1913. His works have had a significant influence on modern humanities.