Capital of the Beauce, 96 km to the south-west of Paris, 42 000 inhabitants.
Near to Paris, Eure et Loir offers a variety of countryside landscapes, forests, small valleys and lakes, the plain of the Beauce and the hills of the Perche.
Chartres boasts the most beautiful and the largest cathedral in Europe, but its churches should not be forgotten. Saint Aignan leant against the ramparts of the upper town and the Saint Pierre abbey church, in the lower town, have wonderful stained glass windows. The Saint Andrée collegiate church, now deconsecrated serves as a concert and exhibition hall.
The Fine arts museum, situated in the former episcopal palace, next to the cathedral regularly organizes prestigious exhibitions.
Several beautiful old houses line the old paved streets. Numerous "hillocks" lead down towards the Eure valley with its old mills, tanneries, "lavoirs"- riverside wash-houses and bridges. Magnificent views of the cathedral can be seen from the banks of the Eure.

"Guides Voir", Hachette

Visit the old quarters in total freedom. Discover the history of Chartres, its monuments, and its inhabitants through the centuries, by wandering through its picturesque streets, over its old bridges and its hillocks, following the itinerary as indicated. The Tourism Office has devised a tourist circuit in the old town: an hour's walk with commentary. You can either do the tour on your own or you can rent a walkman which will enable you to get to know all about the town.

"Notre Ville", publication municipale