Characteristic of the Middle Ages, the bastide is a new town created to make life good. Explore Villeneuve d'Aveyron, Villefranche-de-Rouergue, Najac, Rieupeyroux, Sauveterre-de-Rouergue and La Bastide-l'Evêque to be convinced!
A singular architecture
Stroll through the streets of the bastides in our region, these perfectly laid-out spaces that will pique your curiosity. In these villages, there is no chaotic plan, no inextricable jumble, but a rigorous layout where streets intersect at right angles and are organized around a central square. It is a perfect example of a measured, structured, and codified Middle Ages, arranged according to the deliberate will of its inhabitants.
Forming a veritable checkerboard pattern , the bastides are for the most part ideally located on the trade routes also used by pilgrims going to places of devotion, including that of Saint James of Compostela.
They are endowed with charters defining the main lines relating to the life of the future inhabitants, their rights and advantages as well as their duties. In these rules of procedure, there were many benefits in kind with the donation of settlement land and certain tax exemptions.
A little history
It was in the 13th century that Raymond VII, Count of Toulouse, developed a true policy of land planning through the founding of bastides . Specific to southwestern France, this plan for the rationalization of space was continued by Alphonse of Poitiers, brother of Saint Louis, and maintained until the middle of the 14th century by the kings of France and England, dukes of Aquitaine.
At that time, more than 300 bastides were founded with the aim of responding to strong population growth, political unrest linked to the crusade against the Albigensians, a desire to reassert power in steep areas and the need to put in place value and exploit the surrounding land.
A charm unique to each
Today, these towns and villages offer an exceptional heritage with grid-patterned streets , central squares lined with arcades , numerous private mansions, and beautiful old houses. Regardless of their size, they each have their own unique character.
Immerse yourself in the history of these towns of character
These fortified towns have become vibrant artistic hubs during the summer months, as evidenced by the Festival en Bastides at the beginning of August. The program of this event features theatre, circus, dance, and music performances by companies from all backgrounds, offering the public a cultural and festive adventure, rich in moments of emotion and laughter.
Visit the Bastides of Rouergue
Follow our tour guides to unlock the secrets of the Bastides du Rouergue.
- For more information on guided tours of Villeneuve d'Aveyron, Villefranche de Rouergue and Najac click here
- For more information on the guided tours of Bas Ségala, Rieupeyroux and Sauveterre de Rouergue, go to the website the Ségala tourist office
