Castillonnès: Holiday Apartments and Holiday Homes

The bastide is the focal point of Castillonnès: it stands on a rocky spur and is built against the former fortified castle. It was founded in 1259 by Alphonse de Poitiers as part of a paréage with Cadouin Abbey and the Barons of Mons.

History and Culture

The architectural history includes the Church of Saint-Pierre, which was built in the 13th century. It houses a 17th-century altarpiece that has been classified as a historic monument since 1959. The Porte Guirlity and the Porte des Valets are two secondary gates that were built at the same time as the fortification walls to protect the bastide. There are covered passageways between the houses, known as pontets.

Sightseeing

The bastide of Castillonnès can be explored on a self-guided tour. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes and explains the origins of the bastides and their characteristics. The Church of Saint-Pierre can also be visited on a self-guided tour.

Museum and Crafts

The Castillonnès Museum of History and Heritage presents a permanent exhibition of old photographs. It uses bilingual materials in French and English for its explanations.

At Savonnerie Soleil de Mai, part of the exhibition area is dedicated to the work of local craftspeople and producers. The soap workshop offers natural soaps and cosmetics. Manufacturing workshops for children, families and adults are available there by prior registration.

Routes

The “Circuit de la bastide” circular route in Castillonnès starts at the bastide and accompanies pilgrims coming from Vézelay and travelling to Santiago de Compostela. On the return journey, the circular route passes through the small Douyne valley.

When planning a stay in Castillonnès, you may wish to rent a holiday apartment.

To the overview of the wider destination: Lot Et Garonne.

More Destinations

More places in the same destination:

Salles, Baleyssagues, Sauveterre-La-Lémance, Lavergne, Auradou, Layrac, Bazens, Montpezat.