In the 1970s, Jean Royer also extended the city to the south by diverting the course of the river Cher to create the districts of Rives du Cher and des Fontaines. At the time, this was one of the largest urban developments in Europe. In 1970, the François Rabelais University was founded; this is centred on the bank of the Loire in the downtown area, and not – as it was then the current practice – in a campus in the suburbs. The latter solution was also chosen by the twin university of Orleans. Another bone of contention was the original Vinci Congress Centre by Jean Nouvel. Stroll back in time to immerse yourself in the city’s centuries-old stories, take a foodie tour for a taste of the town or follow lantern-carrying guides through graveyards for haunting tales of the city’s past. Enjoy personalized recommendations and itineraries with over 60,000 guided Tours , iconic attractions, and more. It only takes a group of 7 travelers to turn any of our group tours into a private departure.