Attractions and Places To See around Dommartin-Lès-Toul - Top 20

The cult of the Virgin is ancient in Lorraine, particularly on the Hill of Sion. The apparitions of Lourdes after those of La Salette mark the souls of a very Christianized population in the countryside. Pilgrimages to Lourdes gained momentum in the 1880s. In 1883, there were 1,600 pilgrims from Lorraine. The momentum was given. The idea naturally came to evoke or reproduce the Massabielle cave. https://www.bruley.mairie54.fr/fr/la-replique-de-la-grotte-de-lourdes.html

The fort was built around the existing village of Villey-le-Sec, partly because this strategically located location was also the only water supply in the vicinity at the time, and therefore it was not easy to relocate the residents. The design of the fort was the model for later defensive structures, such as those built in the Maginot Line. The fort was outside of any significant fighting in the world wars, so that although it remained virtually intact, it became increasingly less important strategically. It was therefore no longer maintained after the First World War. In the Second World War, many of the metal parts used were dismantled by the Germans. Today, guided tours organized by an association are offered between May and September. [Michelin Guide Vert]

Toul Cathedral celebrated its 800th anniversary in 2021 (although it was not completed until after 1500). The monumental building dominates the cityscape from afar?

Fort Villey-le-sec, built between 1875 and 1879 in the south-east of Toul on a 345 m high hill, represents a unique ensemble in the fortifications of the Serè des Rivières era the hill was excellently suited to observe and combat a possible deployment of enemy troops. Since a wealthy landowner had already resisted expropriation during the construction of Fort de Bourlèmont and the location of Bourlèmont had to be shifted as a result, the French military also feared fierce resistance in the case of Villey-le-sec. In general, expropriation procedures could be carried out expeditiously when required by national security and when the land was vacant. But here it was a complete village with church and cemetery, which made things considerably more difficult. And so it was decided to surround the village with defenses instead of tearing it down. Source: http://www.festungsbauten.de/F/Toul_Villeylesec.htm

The town hall building

Even if the turnoff to Nancy on the Moselle cycle path is worth it, you shouldn't miss this loop of the Moselle. From Maron to Toul, the Moselle shows different landscapes. The most beautiful part for me is the swamp through which the bike path leads along a dam. Camping in Villey-le-Sec on the other bank of the Moselle is definitely recommended as a stopover with a tent. Access is via the large lock.

Impressive Gothic cathedral of Toul, which houses one of the largest cloisters in France! It was stripped of its statues during the French Revolution but kept its superb. Also worth seeing: its two cloisters and the adjoining garden, very pleasant for taking a break in the shade.

The park next to the cathedral is also worth a visit.