The first reference to Branches appears at the beginning of the 7th century in the Gestes des évêques d’Auxerre (‘Deeds of the Bishops of Auxerre’), in which the territory of Bringa is deeded by the Bishop of Auxerre, Didier (604-623 AD), to the Abbey of Saint-Germain. Branches is a peaceful commune surrounded by forest and is also home to several significant sites.
Saint-Martin Church is one of the oldest pre-Romanesque buildings in the Auxerre region, dating from the 10th-11th century. Classified as a Historic Monument in 2001, this church has a remarkable artistic heritage, with murals dating from the 13th century.
On the way to Guerchy, just past the town hall, is the old Branches washhouse (lavoir), which has been renovated to accommodate the local community hall.
Equally part of the commune is the small plane Auxerre-Branches Aerodrome.
Nearby stands the Saint-Martin Stone, a megalith that was mysteriously placed at the juncture of four communes: Appoigny, Branches, Charbuy and Perrigny.
Carte Postale De La Pierre Saint Martin Collection Particuliere
Branches Petit Detail
Le Chateau De Branches Avant 1931 Ad89 2 Fi 1575
