2006 is going to be a great year for the town of Cahors (46 Lot,Midi-Pyrenees) - as it sees the 700th Anniversary of the medieval fortified bridge (Pont Valentré) which is one of its main attractions. There will doubtless be many festivities to mark the ocassion, and we'll post the details as we get them.
On a more mundane, but practical note, there is a new free Park-and-Ride service (Navette) from the south side of the river (Chartreux) to the town centre, which should ease some of the parking difficulties in the town.
And Cahors is now recognised as "une Ville d'Art et d'Historie" by the French Government, one of 130 sites across France recognised for the importance and quality of their heritage. The town is also active in protecting and restoring much of this heritage, by restricting traffic and encouraging restoration without turning the place into a theme park. As with so many towns like this, although the obvious attractions of the main boulevard, market, Catherdral and the river are delighful, a bit of exploration on foot will yield some of the more interesting gems and snickleways in the heart of the medieval town.
For more on France, Travel, Wine & Food see www.frenchduck.co.uk
Keywords: France, Lot, Cahors
Comments
The real festivities may not take place until 2008, the 700th anniversary of laying the first stone. But it's worth a visit any time.
Posted by: Colin | January 17, 2006 10:24 AM