Saint-Maixent-l'École

SNCF-TGV and TER local trains run to Angoulême, Bordeaux, La Rochelle, Lille, Montauban, Niort, Paris, Poitiers and Tours.

Oldest secular premises in the town is the ancient Pharmacy on Rue Anatole France which has been undergoing a slow but dedicated restoration of its many hidden features.

Rue Chalon, the pedestrianized main shopping street was extensively rebuilt during the 18th century under the supervision of Count Blossac, Intendant of the Generalitat of Poitou.

A charming relic of 'Old France' stands on this corner, a former Cordonnerie (shoe repairers) which has survived untouched by modernization of its street facade.

Rue Churay, just off this street has small public garden which contains the town's war memorial, and is regularly the site of ceremonies of remembrance.

Attended by the town band at these affairs also offer an opportunity to see soldiers studying at St. Maixent's famous 'École de l'Armée' in full dress.

This unusual survivor from the period when Poitou lace was famous throughout Europe has the large north-light window with stone window-seat typical of its kind.