St Jean d'Angely is full of history. It is well known as one of the strongholds of Protestantism in France. The wealthy Benedictine abbey was completely destroyed by the Huguenots in the 16th century. Louis XIII took the town and razed it in 1621. Henri I de Conde died here in 1588 and his son Henri II was born here.
The landmark towers (les Tours) that dominate the landscape of the town are the only sign of the attempt in 17&18 century to rebuild the Abbey. The enclosed market was completely restored a few years ago and is well worth a vist (open Wednesday and Saturday but get up early!)