Dole: Art, Architectural History and Culture

Dole brings together art and archaeological collections, distinctive architectural history and a signposted walking route through the city centre. If you are looking for a hotel in Dole, these different highlights can help you choose a destination that suits your interests: would you like to explore museum collections, learn more about historic buildings or discover the city on foot?

Art collections and a walking tour of the city

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dole was founded in 1821 and is located in the Pavillon des Officiers in the city centre. Its extensive collections cover archaeology as well as old, modern and contemporary art. In addition, the museum holds two temporary exhibitions a year, showcasing French and international art. The collection therefore provides a permanent setting, while the exhibition themes change.

The Circuit du Chat Perché offers a different focus: this signposted route is about four kilometres long, runs through the city centre and gives pedestrians access to the city’s heritage. It covers eight centuries of history as well as distinctive buildings, important streets, squares and decorations. The distance is approximate. For guidance, the Office de Tourisme has a map with brief explanations in foreign-language editions. It is listed at a price of €1; availability and price may change, so check before your visit if needed.

Architectural history and an educational tradition

The Collégiale Notre-Dame de Dole was built in the 16th century after the pillaging under Louis XI. Its portal bell tower is 73 metres high. The church’s fittings include a large organ with 3,500 pipes, built by the German organ builder Riepp. It is one of the very rare 18th-century organs in France. The tower and organ represent two distinct aspects of the building: its widely visible height and an exceptional historic instrument.

Another part of the city’s history is the Collège St Jérôme et chapelle de la Visitation. It was founded in the late 15th century by Antoine Roche, a Benedictine from Franche-Comté and Prior of Cluny. It was intended to house and care for members of the order who attended lectures at the University of Dole. The college is one of only three Cluniac colleges in France. Its history thus connects university education with the history of the Cluniac order.

On the banks of the Canal des Tanneurs is the Maison natale de Pasteur, which has been a museum since 1923. It presents family mementos, Pasteur’s important discoveries, the Institut Pasteur and his father’s tannery. These themes lead from family history and scientific discoveries to his father’s craft.

On the water or by bike

The canals are also part of the cultural experiences on offer. Une Belle Aventure offers a narrated trip aboard the authentic Venetian water taxi Isola Bella, dating from 1963. The trip focuses on the history of Dole and its canals. Alternatively, the provider rents out electric runabout boats that do not require a licence for one-hour or half-day trips. As the provider’s availability and the boats on offer may change, check the current options before making plans. The stated trip durations can help you compare the time required for the two options.

For cycle tourists, Dole is a stop on EuroVelo 6. Route conditions and signage may change; check for current information before setting off. Art collections, architectural history, the walking route, canal experiences and the cycle route offer different ways to enjoy a stay. You can weigh these up when choosing your destination, depending on whether you are more interested in museums and art or in city history and activity.

Discover more destinations: Lavigny, Orgelet, Villard-Saint-Sauveur, Thoirette, Dampierre, Longcochon, La Chaux-Du-Dombief, Arsure-Arsurette.

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