Vaux-en-Beaujolais is a commune in the Rhône department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in eastern France. It is situated in the historical province of Beaujolais, an area renowned for its wine production, particularly the Gamay grape.
Geography
- Location: The commune lies approximately 25 km north‑northwest of Lyon and 10 km southeast of Villefranche‑sur‑Saône.
- Coordinates: 46°07′N 4°45′E.
- Topography: The territory ranges in elevation from 204 m to 535 m above sea level, encompassing a mix of rolling hills, vineyards, and forested areas.
- Area: 11.55 km² (4.46 sq mi).
Administration
- Arrondissement: Villefranche‑sur‑Saône.
- Canton: Belleville-en-Beaujolais.
- Intercommunality: Communauté d'agglomération Villefranche Beaujolais Saône.
- Mayor (2020–2026): Jean‑Claude Cabassot.
Demographics
- Population (2020): 2,163 inhabitants, referred to as Vauxois (male) and Vauxoises (female).
- Population density: Approximately 187 inhabitants per km².
Economy
The local economy is predominately agrarian, with viticulture forming the central sector. Vineyards in Vaux-en-Beaujolais are part of the Beaujolais AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) and produce wines classified under the Beaujolais Villages and Beaujolais crus, notably the nearby Morgon and Fleurie appellations. Supplementary agricultural activities include cereal cultivation and livestock rearing. Small‑scale tourism related to wine tasting, local gastronomy, and heritage trails also contributes to the economy.
History
- Medieval period: The settlement originated in the Middle Ages, taking its name from the Old French vaux (valleys) and its location within the Beaujolais region.
- 17th–19th centuries: Vaux-en-Beaujolais was part of the province of Lyonnais before the creation of the Rhône department during the French Revolution. The commune experienced gradual population growth tied to the expansion of viticulture.
- World War II: Like many rural communes in the area, Vaux-en-Beaujolais was a site of resistance activity, although specific documented events are limited.
Cultural and Heritage Sites
- Church of Saint‑Peter: A 19th‑century parish church featuring Neo‑Romanesque architecture.
- Traditional wine cellars (caves): Historical underground storage facilities used for wine aging, some of which are accessible to visitors.
- Annual festivals: The commune hosts a “Fête du Vin” (Wine Festival) each September, celebrating local winemaking traditions.
Transportation
- Roads: The D5 departmental road provides direct access to Villefranche‑sur‑Saône and the A6 autoroute (Paris‑Lyon).
- Rail: The nearest railway stations are in Villefranche‑sur‑Saône and Gleizé, offering regional TER services.
Education
Vaux‑en‑Beaujolais maintains a primary school (École publique de Vaux‑en‑Beaujolais). Secondary education is provided in nearby towns, primarily Villefranche‑sur‑Saône.
See also
- Beaujolais wine region
- Communes of the Rhône department
References
Data compiled from the French National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE), the official website of the commune, and the Institut National de l’Origine et de la Qualité (INAO) for appellation information.