Brionne - a beautiful market town

Brionne is an ancient fortified town, held historically by the Counts of Brionne. The most famous Count of Brionne is Gilbert who had Herluin as his knight. Herluin subsequently founded the abbey at Le Bec Hellouin and Gilbert became a generous benefactor. The town dominates the Risle valley and its strategic importance is evidenced by the remains of the donjon or fortified tower on the hill above the Mairie. The donjon dates from the 11th century and today provides wonderful views across the Risle valley.

The town is now a quiet country town, with a population of about 4,500. The town has a "plan d'eau" providing easy access to the river with facilities for rowing, canoeing and other water-based activities. In the centre of the town, the shops are typical for a French country town, laid out along two streets and around the two principal squares. There is a busy market held in the main square on Thursdays and Sundays.