Villefranche-du-Périgord is a bastide in the Périgord. The Maison de la Châtaigne conveys the history of the chestnut wood industry and highlights the forests, particularly the chestnut tree, as a characteristic part of the local terroir. Villefranche-du-Périgord is also considered the oldest bastide in the Périgord.
Anyone wishing to rent a holiday apartment in Villefranche-du-Périgord has this place in mind as a travel destination.
Culture and History
The bastide of Villefranche-du-Périgord was founded in 1261. The Church of Notre-Dame de l'Assomption was built in 1864 by the architect Paul Abadie. The market hall of Villefranche-du-Périgord was rebuilt in the 19th century; the fortifications of the bastide can be seen along Rue des Remparts.
Another insight into the region's past is provided by the Maison des Traditions Périgourdines, which displays objects from rural life in the Périgord. Outside the bastide, a fountain and a washhouse bear witness to village life before running water became widespread.
Nature and Trails
After the approximately one-hour visit to the Maison de la Châtaigne, visitors can follow a signposted and annotated 1.5 km educational trail. In addition, a 12 km circular hiking route starts in Villefranche-du-Périgord and takes approximately four hours.
Culinary Heritage
Villefranche-du-Périgord's chestnut tradition received the “Site remarquable du Goût” distinction in 2015. During the season, porcini mushrooms are sold under the market hall of Villefranche-du-Périgord. The seasonal porcini market often includes more than one tonne of mushrooms per day.
