t. Etienne, whose legendary "Greens" have won 10 French league
championships, is the largest city in the Rhone-Alpes region
after Lyon. With a manufacturing tradition dating from the 16th
century, the city prospered in the 19th century thanks to
weapons, fashion accessories, bicycles and coal mining. Its
modern economy has shifted to medical technology, optical
engineering, industrial automation and leisure activities.
Despite its industrial tradition, St. Etienne boasts more than
60,000 hectares of protected green areas. The nearby Gorges de
la Loire canyons and St. Victor reserve offer treks, rock
climbing, sailing and windsurfing. Cultural attractions include
the Comedie Jean Daste theater, the Esplanade Opera House and
the Modern Art Museum. For those more interested in non-cultural
imbibing, the Salon de la Biere bar offers 120 brews and 35
whiskies. World Cup activities will be based around the
Esplanade Opera House. The Plaine Achille park will provide
puppets and pony rides, and the Palais des Sports will feature
roller-blading, trampoline and ice hockey workshops.
t. Etienne, whose legendary "Greens" have won 10 French league
championships, is the largest city in the Rhone-Alpes region
after Lyon. With a manufacturing tradition dating from the 16th
century, the city prospered in the 19th century thanks to
weapons, fashion accessories, bicycles and coal mining. Its
modern economy has shifted to medical technology, optical
engineering, industrial automation and leisure activities.
Despite its industrial tradition, St. Etienne boasts more than
60,000 hectares of protected green areas. The nearby Gorges de
la Loire canyons and St. Victor reserve offer treks, rock
climbing, sailing and windsurfing. Cultural attractions include
the Comedie Jean Daste theater, the Esplanade Opera House and
the Modern Art Museum. For those more interested in non-cultural
imbibing, the Salon de la Biere bar offers 120 brews and 35
whiskies. World Cup activities will be based around the
Esplanade Opera House. The Plaine Achille park will provide
puppets and pony rides, and the Palais des Sports will feature
roller-blading, trampoline and ice hockey workshops.