Under the umbrella of the Templars Heritage Route European Federation (TREF), the Route of the Templars is part of a wider effort to preserve and promote historical and pilgrimage paths linked to the medieval Knights of the Templar across Europe. Supported by local and regional authorities, this cultural route aims to highlight historical sites – castles, commanderies, fortified villages – where the Templars once lived, built, and managed lands, contributing to a shared European heritage. Beyond the historical dimension, the Route des Templiers offers a chance to connect with a slower, contemplative way of travelling, combining heritage, nature, and culture in a way that embodies the medieval spirit of pilgrimage and passage.
Troyes and the Aube Department hold a central place in the history of the Knights Templar. The city of Troyes hosted the Council of 1129 in its Cathedral, where the Order was officially recognized, giving the region a unique historical importance. Visitors can explore the medieval centre of Troyes, with its timber-framed houses and religious architecture reflecting the period. Nearby, the Commanderied’Avalleur stands as one of the best-preserved Templar sites in France. The Aube Department also offers opportunities to visit champagne cellars, including a tasting of Templar champagne. Together, Troyes and the Aube Department offer a precious insight into the origins and legacy of the Templars.
A free hike will be organised on 23-24 November 2026 in the Aube Department. Troyes will also host the final dissemination event of the project.
For more details about the route, visit the website of the Templars’ Heritage Route.
Troyes, Aube Department
By bringing together all project partners, stakeholders, and invited representatives from local authorities, and sports organizations, the final conference will serve as a platform for exchange of best practices, showcase project achievements,
and foster discussions on the integration of HEPA into cultural routes and future collaborations. The European Manual and toolkit will be presented at the event, and a press conference will be taking place.
Friday 18 October – Walk from Fylakio Loutrakiou to Kounoupitsa’s Waterfall and Pozar Thermal Baths; animation en route (6km)
Saturday 19 October – Profitis Ilias – Edessa. Animation en route and workshop in Edessa (15km)
Sunday 20 October – Ancient Edessa and industrial heritage with animation by local historians, followed by event in Edessa (10km)
These materials were prepared and shared by our experts during workshops, where we talked about everything from preparing for a hike to staying healthy along the way. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced walker, you’ll find helpful tips on equipment, physical preparation, and how to best enjoy your adventure along the cultural routes! (Materials available only in Greek)
Founded and hosted by the Aube Department in the city of Troyes, the Templars Heritage Route European Federation has been organising one-day tours along the route with an emphasis on urban trekking and visiting historical and artistic sites since 2016. The network of institutional, private and association members is experienced in collaborative research and development on Templar history, developing cultural and educational exchanges, and developing exemplary and innovative tourism projects.
Under the umbrella of the Templars Heritage Route European Federation (TREF), the Route of the Templars is part of a wider effort to preserve and promote historical and pilgrimage paths linked to the medieval Knights of the Templar across Europe. Supported by local and regional authorities, this cultural route aims to highlight historical sites – castles, commanderies, fortified villages – where the Templars once lived, built, and managed lands, contributing to a shared European heritage. Beyond the historical dimension, the Route des Templiers offers a chance to connect with a slower, contemplative way of travelling, combining heritage, nature, and culture in a way that embodies the medieval spirit of pilgrimage and passage.
Troyes and the Aube Department hold a central place in the history of the Knights Templar. The city of Troyes hosted the Council of 1129 in its Cathedral, where the Order was officially recognized, giving the region a unique historical importance. Visitors can explore the medieval centre of Troyes, with its timber-framed houses and religious architecture reflecting the period. Nearby, the Commanderied’Avalleur stands as one of the best-preserved Templar sites in France. The Aube Department also offers opportunities to visit champagne cellars, including a tasting of Templar champagne. Together, Troyes and the Aube Department offer a precious insight into the origins and legacy of the Templars.
A free hike will be organised on 23-24 November 2026 in the Aube Department. Troyes will also host the final dissemination event of the project.
For more details about the route, visit the website of the Templars’ Heritage Route.
Troyes, Aube Department
By bringing together all project partners, stakeholders, and invited representatives from local authorities, and sports organizations, the final conference will serve as a platform for exchange of best practices, showcase project achievements,
and foster discussions on the integration of HEPA into cultural routes and future collaborations. The European Manual and toolkit will be presented at the event, and a press conference will be taking place.
Friday 18 October – Walk from Fylakio Loutrakiou to Kounoupitsa’s Waterfall and Pozar Thermal Baths; animation en route (6km)
Saturday 19 October – Profitis Ilias – Edessa. Animation en route and workshop in Edessa (15km)
Sunday 20 October – Ancient Edessa and industrial heritage with animation by local historians, followed by event in Edessa (10km)
These materials were prepared and shared by our experts during workshops, where we talked about everything from preparing for a hike to staying healthy along the way. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced walker, you’ll find helpful tips on equipment, physical preparation, and how to best enjoy your adventure along the cultural routes! (Materials available only in Greek)
Founded and hosted by the Aube Department in the city of Troyes, the Templars Heritage Route European Federation has been organising one-day tours along the route with an emphasis on urban trekking and visiting historical and artistic sites since 2016. The network of institutional, private and association members is experienced in collaborative research and development on Templar history, developing cultural and educational exchanges, and developing exemplary and innovative tourism projects.
