| Monthey
Just off the beaten path, the town of Monthey was born in the French Savoie and passed under the domination of several different masters over its first centuries of existence. It is the main city of the Chablais valaisan. Heart and economic capital of the Chablais and gate to Val d'Illiez, Monthey is known for its festive character and love of culture. The historic old city enchants visitors with the castle, now home to the Musée du Vieux Monthey, the thrilling legend of Gros-Bellet and the Old Wood Bridge, which once provided passage to Napoleon's troops. Monthey is also a cultural centre hosting a variety of plays, shows, concerts and conferences in the renowned Crochetan Theatre and the P'tit Théâtre de la Vièze. Among the most important events in Monthey are the weekly market held on Wednesdays in the central square, and the traditional Carnaval celebration, one of the largest and oldest Carnavals in French Switzerland. Finally, the city's proximity to the Choëx plateau and to the resort of Giettes makes Monthey an ideal home base for outings on skis or on foot. The sporting facilities here are countless and the extensive infrastructures for swimming, skating, tennis and horseback riding also allow the town to host numerous sporting events. In short, life here is an art that even a visitor for a day will appreciate. And yet, Monthey is a city that should be lived, explored and returned to. This city has a life and, above all, it has a soul. (adapted from the official websites) |
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