The unknown village in the south of France that takes us back to the Middle Ages

France is a country blessed by nature with its rich variety of landscapes. From majestic peaks to tranquil beaches, every corner exudes a unique beauty worth exploring. Puy-l'Évêque is one of those picturesque villages that goes almost unnoticed, yet it stands on a hill and offers the best views of the Lot Valley.

Located in the Midi-Pyrénées region, with stone houses, narrow streets, and steep stairs leading to its summit, the village looks as if it has been painted with watercolors and frozen in the Middle Ages.

The region invites you to stroll leisurely and marvel at the natural landscapes that emerge at every turn, surrounded by beautiful vineyards and gentle hills. Today, we'll tell you what to do if you want to visit this village located on the hillside overlooking the Lot River.

A town of churches

One of Puy-l'Évêque's main attractions is its imposing churches, each with Gothic-influenced architecture that is unforgettable for any visitor. Right in the town center, you'll find the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, an impressive 13th-century building notable for its 30-meter-high bell tower and beautiful stained-glass windows.

Also noteworthy is the Church of Saint-Sauveur, a 15th-century building built in the Southern Gothic style with a single nave opening onto a choir stall with a flat apse. Another of the area's most important religious structures is the Chapel of Saint-Michel, which was founded in 1444 and became the meeting place for the Blue Penitents brotherhood when they settled in the south.

Other things to do in Puy-l'Évêque

Puy-l'Évêque is much more than medieval churches. You can also visit the Château de Lychaira, a residence built in the 13th century that houses portraits of members of the Ychier del Pech family lineage, its owners. Don't leave without visiting the tower and fort of the current town hall, built in 1850 on the remains of an old 18th-century Capuchin convent. When it was founded, its top level was intended to receive garrisons for the region.

And of course, the Place du Rampeau, a viewing platform located in the former fairgrounds, offers the best views of the medieval town. The best time to appreciate this view from above is at sunset, as the river acts as a mirror, reflecting the buildings and the landscape is tinged with beautiful warm tones. Finally, you can take a stroll along the Marguerite Bessiéres Promenade , a pedestrian path between the upper town and the river surrounded by hanging gardens, built in 2016 on top of the ruined medieval houses.