Annonay

Annonay is a commune in the Ardèche department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southern France. It is located in the northern part of the department and serves as a local hub for surrounding communities.

The town is best known for its historical association with the Montgolfier brothers, Joseph-Michel and Jacques-Étienne, who pioneered hot air ballooning in the 1780s. The brothers operated a paper mill in Vidalon-les-Annonay, where early experiments contributed to the development of balloon flight, with a famous demonstration in Paris in 1783 that followed their work in Annonay.

Annonay preserves its industrial heritage through museums and historic sites related to papermaking and ballooning. The town also hosts cultural events, markets, and educational institutions, reflecting its status as a regional center of activity and culture.

Today, the economy of Annonay centers on local services, small industry, and crafts, with tourism linked to its historical associations with the Montgolfier brothers and the town’s industrial past. The area also features green spaces and a range of local amenities that serve residents and visitors alike.