Village de Journans et source de la Reyssouze

If the cultivation of vines has nowadays diminished, strolling through the picturesque streets of Journans nevertheless allows one to revive a not so distant past. It is also an opportunity to discover the source of the Reyssouze, the emblematic river which crosses the Bresse. Situated at the foot of a wooded slope, the river rises from a karstic spring where it fills two basins before crossing a 19th century wash house. The water, which flows all year round, has given rise to a legend: an old woman named "Reyssouze" was once visited by the Devil. In exchange for her soul, he promised to prolong the act she would do when midnight came. Thinking that she could get rich easily, she wanted to drop the few gold coins she had on the table at the right moment, imagining that the gold would pile up. But as the twelve knocks began to sound, she had to satisfy a very pressing natural need. Since then, the source of the Reyssouze is inexhaustible!
At the top of the village, the parish church dates back to the 17th century (1659-61); it is dedicated to Saint-Vincent, patron saint of winegrowers. Then judged too small, it was partially rebuilt between 1781 and 1792. Its western facade is quite sober.