Le Bourget-du-Lac
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| Le Bourget-du-Lac | |
|---|---|
| Name | Le Bourget-du-Lac |
| Region | Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes |
| Department | Savoie |
| Arrondissement | Chambéry |
| Canton | La Motte-Servolex |
| Intercommunality | Grand Lac |
| Elevation min m | 226 |
| Elevation max m | 1505 |
| Area km2 | 20.05 |
Le Bourget-du-Lac. It is a commune in the Savoie department within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France. Situated on the western shore of the Lac du Bourget, the largest natural lake in France, it lies just south of the departmental capital, Chambéry. The town's history is deeply intertwined with the lake and the presence of a significant medieval priory, shaping its development from a religious center to a modern residential and scientific hub.
Geography
The commune occupies a strategic position between the southern tip of the Lac du Bourget and the first foothills of the Chartreuse Mountains. Its territory extends from the lakeshore, including the Châtillon Bay, up to forested slopes and the summit of Mont du Chat. This location provides a diverse landscape of wetlands, such as the Marais du Bourget, and elevated viewpoints overlooking the lake towards Aix-les-Bains and the Massif des Bauges. The area is part of the larger Parc naturel régional du Massif des Bauges and is traversed by several streams feeding into the lake.
History
The site's importance dates to the Roman era, with evidence of a villa and port activity. Its historical prominence began in the 5th century with the establishment of a religious community by Saint Eusebius of Vercelli. A priory was later founded here in the 11th century under the influence of the Abbey of Saint Michael of Cuxa and became a powerful institution under the protection of the Counts of Savoy. The priory played a key role in regional politics, hosting figures like Saint Thomas Becket and Pope Innocent IV. Following the French Revolution, the priory was sold as national property. The 19th century saw the arrival of the Paris–Marseille railway, connecting it to Lyon and Chambéry, while the 20th century brought significant development with the establishment of a major French Air Force base and later, important research centers.
Population
The population has seen substantial growth, particularly since the late 20th century, evolving from a small village into a thriving suburban commune. This demographic increase is closely linked to its proximity to the urban employment centers of Chambéry and Aix-les-Bains, as well as the expansion of the Savoy Technolac science park. The resident community includes a mix of families, professionals working in the technology sector, and academic staff associated with the University of Savoy.
Economy
Historically based on agriculture, viticulture, and fishing, the local economy has been transformed by knowledge-based industries. The commune is now a central part of the Savoy Technolac innovation cluster, hosting major research institutions like the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and the French Institute for Research in Computer Science and Automation (INRIA). It is also home to the University of Savoy's technology department and several businesses specializing in renewable energy, environmental science, and information technology. Tourism remains a seasonal component, focused on lake-related activities and the historic priory.
Culture and heritage
The most significant heritage site is the former Priory of Le Bourget, a classified Monument historique featuring a Romanesque church, cloisters, and medieval frescoes. The annual "Fête du Lac" celebrates the town's connection to its waterfront. Cultural life is supported by associations and benefits from the presence of the academic community. The natural setting offers numerous recreational opportunities, including hiking on the slopes of Mont du Chat, birdwatching in the protected wetlands, and water sports on the Lac du Bourget.
Notable people
Historical figures associated with the priory include Saint Thomas Becket, who resided there during his exile, and Pope Innocent IV, who took refuge there in the 13th century. In the modern era, the town has been linked to aviators and scientists connected to the French Air Force base and the research centers at Savoy Technolac.