Boulsis

Boulsis is a small commune located in the central region of France within the department of Allier. The settlement is situated on a gently rolling plateau that overlooks the Cher River valley, roughly 20 kilometers north of the departmental capital, Moulins. According to the most recent census conducted in 2019, Boulsis has a population of approximately 430 residents, with a demographic profile that is largely composed of families who have lived in the area for several generations.

Historically, Boulsis can be traced back to the Roman era, with archaeological evidence indicating the presence of a modest villa rustica in the 2nd century CE. The village was formally established during the medieval period, when the local lordship of the Barony of Teillé granted the settlement a charter that allowed residents to harvest timber from the surrounding forest and to cultivate wheat and rye. During the French Revolution, Boulsis was briefly integrated into the newly created department of Allier, and later, in the 19th century, it experienced a modest agricultural boom as lavender and chestnut orchards spread across its fields.

In contemporary times, Boulsis remains predominantly agricultural, with olive groves, orchards, and a small dairy farm providing the majority of its local employment. The commune also hosts an annual festival celebrating its heritage, featuring traditional music, dance, and the reenactment of the famed “Mills of the Past.” Boulsis is known for its well-preserved village architecture, including a Romanesque parish church that dates to the 12th century and a 17th-century stone mill that has been converted into a museum. Infrastructure in the commune is kept modest; a primary school serves local children, and a network of country roads connects Boulsis with neighboring municipalities. The nearest large public transportation hub is located in the city of Moulins, accessible by a regional bus service that runs twice daily.