Cultural
Champagne Hillsides, Houses and Cellars
Épernay, France
Inscribed 2015
Photo : Fab5669 (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Located in the Marne department of the Grand Est region, this cultural property encompasses the historic champagne production landscape of Épernay and its surrounding hillsides. The site represents an outstanding example of the interaction between human activity and natural geography over centuries, as the chalky soils and favorable climate of the region were systematically developed for viticulture beginning in the medieval period. The inscription recognizes the distinctive architectural heritage of the area, including the characteristic houses and underground chalk cellars (crayères) that have been integral to champagne production and storage. The hillside vineyards display the traditional land management practices that have shaped the landscape, while the historic cellars demonstrate the technical innovations developed to preserve and age champagne at optimal conditions. Together, these elements illustrate the cultural and economic significance of champagne production to the region and document the evolution of wine-making practices from their origins to the present day.
Location
Épernay, France
Inscription
2015
