Capital of Auvergne and prefecture of Puy-de-Dôme, Clermont-Ferrand occupies a remarkable natural site, in the middle of the Puys chain (any good tourist guide on Clermont-Ferrand will mention the Vulcania amusement park a few kilometers from the city) and at the gates of the Midi. The city was born in 1630, by decision of Louis XIII, from the union of Clermont and Montferrand, two rival cities a few kilometers apart and with different origins: ancient for the first, which saw the first cathedral rise in the 10th century, medieval for the second, which was founded by the Counts of Auvergne from the 12th century. After an important development in the 19th century, it is the establishment of Michelin (which offers a very interesting visit) between the two world wars that will definitely change the future of the city. Thus, the number of inhabitants will go from 50 000 in 1900 to 150 000 in 1962, with the creation of numerous districts. Today, the population of Clermont-Ferrand is 142,000. From the two original cities, the city has kept two old centers, about 4 km apart. The city center of Clermont-Ferrand, the old Clermont, extends around the cathedral Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption. The old Montferrand is located to the north-east. They are linked by a large avenue (Georges-Couthon, then Avenue de la République). A dynamic cultural city, it hosts a major short film festival every year. Rugby fans can enjoy theASM Experience.
When to go to Clermont-Ferrand ? The harsh winter climate does not necessarily attract tourists to Clermont-Ferrand. Nevertheless, like any large city, Clermont-Ferrand can be visited all year round. There is no shortage of activities and visits and the city's hotels are quite affordable. If you are a film lover, the International Short Film Festival in Clermont-Ferrand takes place during one week in February and can be a very good reason to come to Clermont-Ferrand during this period. However, it would be a shame to go to Clermont-Ferrand without enjoying the surrounding nature. Winter will give you the opportunity to ski. Hiking or biking will make you happy in summer.
It is difficult to define precisely the climate of Clermont-Ferrand. Because of its position, the city is subjected to different influences. Nevertheless, it is a semi-continental climate that dominates. Globally, summers are rather hot (generally over 20°C), but marked by important storms. Winters are very cold (average temperature around 3-4 °C) but dry.
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