Cahors is the prefecture of the Lot département, and is the only major town in the “county”. It’s an ideal place to examine the history of the region, as you walk through its architecture from the middle ages.

Its position on the banks of the Lot has always meant it was a sought-after town. In the 12th century, the bishop worked to encourage bankers and shop keepers to settle in the town. As the town thus grew and flourished, beautiful buildings were built. The cathedral dates from this period, with its domes, which were a real architectural challenge at the time.

In the 13th century, Cahors became renowned as the birthplace of Pope Jean XXII. He did a lot of good work for the town, including the construction of a University. Between the river and the Boulevard Gambetta, stroll through the streets to enjoy this beautiful architecture.

With the 100 years war, the town was fortified, and some trace of this remains (la tour des Pendues, la Barbacane – both on the northern side of town). Above all, the Valentré bridge on the west of town, known as the devil’s bridge because it really was devilishly hard to build. They even engraved a devil on the central tower, and some say that this protected it from attack by the English. It’s a daunting bridge with its three square towers each over 40m tall. Six gothic arches span the Lot river.

The town itself is a simply wonderful place to explore on foot.

Tourist office: +33 (0) 5 65 53 20 65

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