La Roche-sur-Yon is a charming town in the Vendée region of western France, founded by Napoleon I as a new capital for the area. You can admire the elegant Neoclassical architecture and the lively gardens of the Place Napoleon, where you can also encounter some surprising mechanical animals. The town's history is linked to the famous emperor, whose statue dominates the main square. You can visit the Church Saint-Louis, the Haras de la Vendée, and the Musée Municipal to learn more about the local culture and heritage. If you love nature, you can explore the scenic Vallée de l'Yon, where a river flows through lush greenery and ancient mills.