Vienne is a treasure trove of natural and cultural heritage, the ideal place for families looking for experiences, well-being, and a break from routine. On Saturday, 25 May, the Olympic torch will begin its tour of the department in Loudun, whose Tour Carrée, built in the 11^th century, looms large over the town and its surroundings.

From there, it will go to Neuville-de-Poitou, famous for its medieval remains, and on to Châtellerault, whose arms factory evolved into a neighbourhood with a vibrant cultural scene. Next up are Château-Larcher, which runs a medieval fair every year, and Montmorillon, the "Town of Writing". After that, the torch will run to Charroux, a major stop on the Way of St James, before entering Poitiers, a city with a rich historical heritage.

Celebrations in Grand Poitiers Futuroscope

The Greater Poitiers community of municipalities will set the scene for the remaining festivities of the day. The route will take the Olympic torch past Saint John's Baptistry, the oldest surviving Christian monument in Europe; it will then zip past City Hall on its way to the prefecture. Both are iconic public buildings of Poitiers.

The torch will then head to the Palace of the Dukes of Aquitaine, one of the most remarkable civil architecture sites in France. At that point, it will be time to go to the celebration site, set up in a venue that the people of Poitou have come to know and love: the Futuroscope Arena. The Arena, built at the entrance to the famous theme park, will host the end-of-day celebrations.

Celebration venue info

Come and celebrate the passing of the Olympic flame in Grand Poitiers Futuroscope !

The celebration site is free and open to all from 3.30pm to 7.45pm at the following address: GRAND POITIERS-FUTUROSCOPE,
86360 CHASSENEUIL-DUPOITOU

A festive programme open to all awaits you, including :

• events organised by the local authorities: sport, music, shows, etc.
• stands run by the Relay of the Flame sponsors:
  • Coca-Cola will be providing a musical and festive atmosphere
  • Banque Populaire will be giving the public the chance to try out water sports
  • Caisse d'Epargne will be dedicating its stand to basketball and handball
• a show organised by the sponsors on the sports slab from 6 p.m.
• 7.20pm: the arrival of the last torchbearer and the lighting of the Olympic cauldron, a moment not to be missed!

Note: a giant screen, a host and a DJ will also be on hand to get the public in the mood for the Torch Relay!