Cozes combines religious architectural heritage, ancient routes and winegrowing to create a multifaceted townscape. These themes can be found in the town’s historic buildings, pilgrimage history, routes and winegrowing traditions.
Culture and History
The Church of Saint-Pierre is one of the town’s defining buildings: its octagonal bell tower dates from the 15th century. The church itself was built in the 12th century, partially rebuilt in the 18th century, and preserves its 13th-century sanctuary. Saint-Pierre has been classified as a historic monument since 1928. An access ramp for people with disabilities has also been installed at the church.
The Protestant architectural heritage is also associated with several dates. The construction of a new Protestant temple in Cozes was decided in 1817, and the new Protestant temple was completed in 1821. The Protestant temple of Cozes has been fully protected as a historic monument, including its interior furnishings, since 21 September 1998. The old market halls of Cozes have been fully listed as historic monuments since 15 September 1938.
In the Middle Ages, Cozes was an important stop on the Way of Saint James to Santiago de Compostela. Pilgrims came through the town via Trizay or Saint-Jean d’Angle and continued on to Arces-sur-Gironde and Talmont.
Landscape and Routes
The PR N°18 hiking trail – Cozes begins at the Logis de Sorlut and leads through fields and woodland. Along its route, it crosses a Roman road that was once a crossroads for several routes used by the Romans along the southeast-northwest axis. The trail also passes through the hamlet of La Piaudrie, with its numerous Gallo-Roman remains.
Culinary Experiences
At Domaine Gardrat in Cozes, visitors are welcomed for tastings and to discover the vineyard.
Anyone wishing to rent a holiday apartment in Cozes can include the town in their travel plans.
