Aisne borders  Belgium to the northeast  and the Ardennes Forest, the landscape is dominated by masses of rock They can be found all over the region,  this is a good spot for cycling and walking in the forest of St-Gobain, Laon is the capital of the Aisne region the town occupies a commanding position on the top of a narrow ridge this is a medieval walled town steeped in history such as the 12th century octagonal Knights Templar and 18th century houses here you will find the city ramparts of the old town are a must for fine views of the surrounding countryside, the Cathedral de Notre-Dame can be found here, it was built in the second half of the 12th century and was so ahead of its time that parts of its design were copied at Chartres, Reims and Notre-Dame in Paris.