| Monpazier, bastide médiévale | |
 A short history of Monpazier... This bastide (fortified town) was founded in 1284 by Edward the first, King of England. It was constructed on a rectangular north-south blueprint of 400 meters by 220 meters, which are crisscrossed with streets that end by still-standing fortified towers. The main square is surrounded by 13th century houses with arcades. The Covered market, whose framework dates from the 14th century, is still decorated by a broad counter made of stones, adorned with three barrels that were once used to measure seeds. Six monumental wooden doors allow entrance into the bastide, which is barricaded by stone walls. From the towers, one can see the grooves for the harrows and hinges that support the doors. A wooden log impaled in rock symbolically marked the beginnings of the building of Monpazier, with a ceremony that took place on January 7th, 1284. The site of this monument is the geometric and geographical center of the town. In 1991, authorities declared the Bastide of Monpazier a historical landmark.   |
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Château de Biron This chateau was one of four baron-owned properties in the Périgord, which for 8 centuries belonged to the powerful Gontaut-Biron family. All types of architecture are represented here, ranging from a 12th century dungeon to 18th century apartments and a renaissance chapel. Diverse examples of medieval architecture can be discovered by walking through the castral town situated at the foot of the chateau. 
Tourist office 24540 Monpazier 05 53 22 68 59 05 53 22 60 38 > For all information concerning lodging, gastronomy, leisure activities, cultural activities, hiking tours, and available services.. "Jazz 2007" summer sessions in Monpazier. Get your information now! |
