The bastide villages of Lot-et-Garonne and Dordogne, such as Monflanquin and Villeréal, are beautiful medieval settlements with a rich past. Built between 1220 and 1370, these villages are known for their geometrically planned streets and central squares with arcades. Visitors can enjoy weekly markets, summer dinner parties and cultural events.
Monflanquin and Villeréal
Monflanquin towers proudly over the countryside and is famous for its Thursday market, which has existed since 1256. In Villeréal, the imposing wooden market hall stands out.
Summer festivals and brocantes
The bastides come alive in summer with dinner parties at long tables in the squares, music and theatre festivals, such as the Bodega in Villeréal and the Soirées Baroques in Monflanquin. Monflanquin also celebrates a major medieval festival in August that pays tribute to the region’s rich heritage.