Lons-le-Saunier
Lons-le-Saunier is to the east of the Franche-Comté region, near Chateau-Chalon and Baume-les-Messieurs.
Although you are perhaps unlikely to see a public execution during your visit (see photo below) there is plenty else to help you pass the time. Dating from at least Roman times, and with evidence of a neolithic settlement before that, the town has a long history.
Unfortunately much of the town was destroyed by fire in the 17th century, but the townspeople did a fine job with the rebuilding.
Based around the central Place de la Liberte, a large open square with fountains and statues, the square itself won a prize for the quality of its (recent) refurbishment.
The streets that radiate from the square and are lined with 17th century town houses are the highlight - especially the Rue des Arcades. Note the clocktower on the same street, and also the birthplace of Rouget de Lisle (composer of the French National Anthem, the Marseillaise).
There are more townhouses to admire - see the 18th century properties in La Place Bichat, and the pastel-tinted colours of the less grand houses in La Place de la Comedie.
The crypt in the Church Saint-Eglise at Lons-le-Saunier deserves a visit as does (which is not always the case in small French towns) the museum exploring the history of the region.
There is also a spa if you need some rest and relaxation (the town has apparently been a spa town for the last 2000 years), and a good sprinkling of fountains around the town to remind you of its importance.
The archaeology museum in Lons features a dinosaur from 210 million years ago, so the oldest in France.
Note: the photo shows a public execution in Lons in 1897. You are unlikely to see one during your visit!)
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Places to visit near Lons-le-Saunier, France
Explore places of interest within about 70 kilometres on a map at places near Lons-le-Saunier.
Some places to visit within 30 km: 
35 km: Arbois (Town in Jura) 11 km: Baume-les-Messieurs (Most beautiful village) 12 km: Chateau-Chalon (Most beautiful village)
See also Lons-le-Saunier (version Francais)
