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Remiremont is situated along the GR Footpath (Grande Randonnée 7 in French), a long-distance footpath which follows a part of the European continental divide between the Mediterranean to the south and the North Sea/English Channel/Atlantic to the north.

Remiremont (from the Latin Romarici Mons) derives its name from Saint Romaric, one of the companions of Saint Columban of Luxeuil, who in the seventh century founded two communities in the area. The first was Remiremont Abbey, in the valley, which housed the monks. The second was a convent located above the town on the hill now known as Saint-Mont (a chapel, dating from 1730, can still be visited on the site).

Over time, the nuns moved from the upper site down into Remiremont itself and established themselves as a Benedictine convent. By the end of the 13th century, however, the nuns had abandoned their Benedictine lifestyle and become a community of secular canonesses. Their members were extracted solely from those who could prove at least 200 years of noble descent.

Thanks to the patronage of the Dukes of Lorraine, the Kings of France, and Holy Roman Emperors, the ladies of Remiremont attained considerable power. The abbess of Remiremont Abbey was raised to the status of Imperial Princess and consecrated by the Pope.

The town's principal shopping street is rue Charles de Gaulle. This street is lined by 18th century arcades, providing a sheltered walkway for visiting the boutiques and cafés which it hosts.