During its 2000 year existance Beaune was for a short period the capital of the Dukes of Burgundy, then a busy commercial center for the cloth and wine industries. The town took on a defensive character through the continous fortification of its ramparts and castle whose functions were to protect its interests and inhabitants. In the 18th century Beaune became the center of commerce for Burgundy’s fine wines. Today, the visitor finds a charming blend of medieval half timbered houses, the gentle curves of romanesque architecture, rooftops ornamented by weathervanes, fascinating townhouses and the multicolored tiles and lead “lacework ” of the H