It could be the twin sister of Cordes-sur-Ciel. Indeed, the bastide of Castelnau de Montmiral was founded in the same year, 1222 and by the very same Count of Toulouse, Raymond VII. But its splendours and its history are all its own.
Castelnau stands on the left bank of the Vère in an ideal position to allow it to watch over comings and goings in the valley. The fortress-village which has retained some vestiges of its ramparts consequently offers magnificent panoramic views over the Vère basin and the nearby Grésigne forest. In its streets and half-timbered houses you could feel that you were being taken back to the rich and tumultuous medieval past of the village. For example, just go and have a drink in the Place des Halles and you’ll certainly find someone to tell you the story of the Pillory in the square... We’ll say no more! Further along, inside the church of Notre Dame de l'Assomption you will find Castelnau de Montmiral’s greatest treasure, the reliquary cross of the Counts of Armagnac. This is truly a masterpiece of the ecclesiastical goldsmith’s art, made entirely of gold and encrusted with precious stone and with a history that is anything but commonplace.
You will have no difficulty in understanding why Castelnau de Montmiral is today one of the “Most Beautiful Villages of France”.
Not to be missed
- The reliquary cross of the Counts of Armagnac - www.castelnaudemontmiral-tourisme.com
- A walk through the village’s streets and a stop in the Place des Arcades - www.castelnaudemontmiral-tourisme.com
- Walk along the surrounding footpaths and through the Grésigne forest - www.castelnaudemontmiral-tourisme.com
Castelnau-de-Montmiral on the map
Our holiday idea
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 Once more to the bastides and fortified villages!Travel back to the days of gentle knights, noble ladies, courts of love and Cathars.Book your break and don’t delay in exploring these architectural wonders... Select and book your three or four-star hotel online BOOK ONLINE |
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