IN TENAREZE

Beautiful medieval bastide overlooking the Auzoue river

A veritable open-air history book, Montréal du Gers will reveal all its secrets. This royal bastide, founded in the 13th century, is built into the rock overlooking the Auzoue valley. From its rich past, it retains a fortified enclosure, half-timbered houses and merchant arcades. The historical journey continues at the nearby Gallo-Roman Villa de Séviac. Let yourself be charmed by its marble, colorful mosaics and sumptuous thermal baths. An unmissable journey through history.

Remains of a vast Gallo-Roman villa, below Montreal

Gallo-Roman villas served as rural residences and farms. The villa at Séviac is a luxurious 6,500 m² palace discovered in the late 19th century. This agricultural living space is considered one of the largest residences in southwest Gaul. It is distinguished by its mosaic ensemble, covering 625 m², with geometric and vegetal decorations that testify to the Villa’s economic activity. The decorative ensemble has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1978. What would a Villa be without its thermal baths? In the 5th century, Séviac’s thermal baths covered an area of almost 520 m². After several phases of construction, the baths were adorned with marble and the floors equipped with heating systems. Finally, a large swimming pool decorated with mosaics and marble marked this beautiful Gallo-Roman edifice, still visible today.

Charming medieval village with atypical round square

Surprise and strolling are on the agenda for your visit to Fourcès. This ancient Castelnau is characterized by its round bastide shape, where a motte castrale once stood in the Middle Ages. Marvel at the medieval houses and let yourself be carried away by the atmosphere of the South-West, during a game of pétanque, the local fête or the annual flower market. A self-guided tour of the village with an explanatory sheet is available from the Tourist Office.

Plus Beaux Villages de France – Village fortifié – Douves & Pont levis

A journey through history awaits you in Larressingle. Its imposing surrounding wall, towers and gateway give you privileged access to its 13th-century château and fortified church. All in an authentic medieval atmosphere. Classified as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France” and awarded the “Grands Site Occitanie” label under the heading “Armagnac Abbaye et Cité”, don’t miss this historic landmark

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Cathedral and cloister – Port sur la Baïse

The city’s wealth in the Middle Ages. The town continued to grow until the 19th century, as evidenced by its superb townhouses. Discover them on a stroll through the historic center. Outdoor activities are also in the spotlight, with the Armagnac greenway, the route de Saint Jacques de Compostelle and the navigable Baïse river. Many cruise operators offer excursions. Every year, Condom resounds throughout Gascony with its international Bandas festival. A not-to-be-missed event that immerses you in the atmosphere of the South-West.