Every year, heritage lovers gather in front of a show that has become a landmark over the years. The Monument Préféré des Français rewards these historic, cultural and attractive places, and then elects an institution from among all the French regions represented. For this 2024 vintage, the competition was tough among the 14 chosen locations, but only one stood out. So, which monument succeeded the Château Fort de Sedan, grand winner of the 2023 edition?
Who will be the French people’s favorite monument in 2024?
This Wednesday, September 18, the prime of the Monument Préféré des Français, broadcast on France 3, revealed a grand winner after several months of waiting. At the end of the French people’s vote, collected throughout the summer, one place stood out from the rest and garnered the most votes. Representing the Pays de la Loire region, it was the mythical circuit du Mans in the Sarthe region of France that landed the precious sesame! 100 years after the first edition of the 24h du Mans, it’s a timely award!
For all motor sport enthusiasts, the 24 Hours of Le Mans circuit is a veritable institution the world over. The ultimate grail for any professional driver, on a par with the Grand Prix de Monaco or the 500 miles of Indianapolis, the 24h of Le Mans has enlivened the region for over a century now, attracting crowds from all over the world to each edition. From mythical bends and chicanes, the Hunaudières straight and a museum dedicated to the race, it’s the circuit and all its infrastructure that have been rewarded this year. A result “anything but surprising” according to Stéphane Bern, presenter and designer of the show.
A well-deserved title, but one that in no way detracts from the charm and appeal of the other monuments in the running. Domaine de Trévarez in Brittany, Prieuré Saint-Cosme in the Centre region or Beffroi de Douai in Hauts-de-France, French heritage was so well represented this year! And for Île-de-France, it was the château de Fontainebleau that represented the region!
Only 1h30 by train from Paris, the circuit awaits you between June 11 and 15 for the legendary race. Otherwise, you can visit it and its museum all year round thanks to highly rewarding tours.