Montreuil-sur-Barse

Before you start this treasure hunt, do not hesitate to enjoy the discovery of Montreuil-sur-Barse thanks to the audio-guide created by its inhabitants by downloading the IziTravel application on your mobile phone and choosing « Le parcours de l’écureuil » (“the squirrel’s route”).

Montreuil comes from the Latin word “monaselriolum” meaning small monastery. The addition of “sur Barse” to “Montreuil” happened in 1919. It was then supposed to differentiate it from the other Montreuil, that has since become Saint-Léger-près-Troyes.

The prosperity of the local economy was long due to the exploitation of green sands (used in foundries) and of a dairy (up to 7,000 litres per day of milk were collected in the Barse Valley, then pasteurised and sent by rail to Paris).

Put on your trainers and stroll along the beautiful paths surrounded by orchards, discovering the many historical and heritage sites. 

Enjoy your discovery, pay attention to details, and have a good time!

To start this game, admire this beautiful square and its magnificent houses. Take a moment to look at the war memorial inaugurated on the 19^th of October 1924, with its statue representing a “poilu”.

The word “poilu” (hairy man) is a nickname given to the First World War French soldiers fighting from the trenches (as well as to the soldiers of Napoleon’s Old Guard). At that time, this familiar word used to describe someone who was brave and virile (a man with hair in the right places).

until you reach this 16^th century manor house designed by the architect Dominique le Florentin. A project to transform it into a heritage house is under study at the moment.

Built according to the architectural principles of that time, it is characteristic of the dwellings and houses of Troyes. It is built in brick and chalk, with mullioned windows, and its fireplace is dated 1565.

Enjoy the view of Montiéramey in the distance.

You are in front of the washhouse.

Saint Gilles church is built on a Latin cross plan. The tower, the nave and the porch date from the 12^th century, while the other parts of the building date form the 16^th century.

Go down the track to the cross to answer the next question.

It was built in the 18^th century (even though Roman coins have been found on this site), and there is always a spring (even in times of drought).  The faithful came to pray and ask favours of Saint-Gilles (remember Saint Gilles is the patron saint of cripples, he is invoked against cancer, sterility of women and madness).

Beware, the water is non-drinking water.

At the junction with the street “rue du 27 août 1944”, turn right to the roadside cross known as “croix Nérot” at the exact sport where this photo was taken.

General Patton’s army liberated Troyes between the 25^th and the 27^th of August 1944. A German division arriving from Dijon to reinforce German troops unfortunately passed through Montreuil. A little fight with the resistance at the entrance of the village turned into a real disaster. Several men were arrested and killed at this spot.

Continue to walk up to this building.

This is the end of this walk through a town with a rich natural and architectural heritage.

If you enjoyed this walk, you could play many other games in different town of Troyes La Champagne.

Do not hesitate to try them out and even to send us new ideas to make them better!

The whole team of Troyes La Champagne Tourisme is looking forward to seeing you again soon on our website and online game platform!

Try more quizzes  here !

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Crédits photos : © NV – Troyes La Champagne Tourisme