🇫🇷 Chambéry: A Medieval Alpine Gem at the Foot of the French Alps 🏰

Yesterday, taking advantage of my border-resident privileges (no PCR test required!), I hopped on a FlixBus to visit Chambéry, the former capital of the Duchy of Savoy. Nestled in the western Alps, this charming town has long been a key transport hub and played a pivotal role in European history. 🏰 A Walk Through Time: The Château des Ducs de Savoie Free exhibition inside the castle reveals Chambéry’s rich past: 13th century: The Savoy kings incorporated the town into their domain and launched major urban development. 15th century: It became a duchy within the Holy Roman Empire. 18th century: Napoleon III exchanged Savoy for Lombardy, leading to Italian unification—and Chambéry’s final annexation by France, separating it from its sister city, Turin (Torino). The Mystery of the Shroud of Turin 🕵️‍♂️✨ The famous Shroud of Turin—a linen cloth bearing the image of a man believed by some to be Jesus—was miraculously rediscovered in the castle’s Sainte-Chapelle before being moved to Turin in 1578, where it remains today. 🚶‍♂️ Exploring Chambéry: A Perfect Day Trip Wandered the old town & castle 🏰 Unexpected hike & street workout 💪🌿 Feasted on French delights 🧀🍷 (bonus: affordable prices!) Only regret: Missing my French language-exchange pen pal, É. Next time, I’ll explore Lyon & Turin too! 📌 Travel Tips Recommended stay: 1-2 days ⏳ Transport: 🚂 Train/bus from Annecy (multiple daily, ~1hr) 🚌 FlixBus also available Ticket prices: Château des Ducs de Savoie: €2.50 (adults), FREE for kids Most other attractions: FREE! 🎉 Address: 10 Rue du Sénat de Savoie, 73000 #Chambéry #FrenchAlps #MedievalTown #HiddenHistory #ShroudOfTurin #DuchyOfSavoy #TravelFrance #BudgetTravel