Discover Capdrot through its different features: a rural, predominantly wooded landscape, the history of the Collégiale de Capdrot, the Menhir de Peyrecourt and two walking trails. When planning your trip, you can first decide whether you want to focus on ecclesiastical history, local legends or a tour.
Landscape and local history
Capdrot lies in a rural, predominantly wooded landscape with a variety of agricultural crops. The Dropt is another local feature: the stream rises in Capdrot. The landscape and heritage therefore offer different ways to explore the commune. The area is shaped by woodland and agriculture, while the collegiate church and menhir are the main links to the history of the place.
The collegiate church and its history
The history of the Collégiale de Capdrot can be traced through several key dates. From the 11th century, the church was a popular pilgrimage destination because of the Black Madonna venerated there. In the 13th century, the jurisdiction of the Collégiale extended over 68 parishes. In 1318, a papal decision elevated the church to collegiate status. Devotion, the extent of its jurisdiction and its ecclesiastical rank are distinct aspects of the area's history.
Capdrot's role on the Chemin de Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle is also part of this historical context: from the 13th century, the commune was a stop on the Way of St James. Together with the pilgrimage history of the Black Madonna, this connection shows how closely Capdrot was linked to the religious routes and traditions of the past.
Menhir and local legends
The Menhir de Peyrecourt offers a different perspective on Capdrot's history. The fallen megalithic monument is linked to the area's early origins and is made of sandstone. It is also part of local storytelling: the menhir is associated with local legends and was called “la man des diable.” While the collegiate church is associated above all with medieval milestones and its religious role, the menhir links Capdrot's early origins with local legends.
Two walking trails, different points of interest
The Boucle de Peyrecourt is an 18 km circular trail. The Boucle de Buffarot starts in the bastide of Monpazier and takes visitors to Capdrot's collegiate church, with its paintings and fountain. The two routes offer different points of reference when choosing a walk: the length of the Peyrecourt loop is specified, while Buffarot's starting point in Monpazier and its connection to the collegiate church are highlighted. Route details may change, so check them again before setting out.
The collegiate church's fountain appears to date from Roman times and is associated with a water cult. Its possible date and religious connection offer another cultural and historical perspective on the site, alongside the church's medieval history. Capdrot can therefore be explored through several themes: as a place with historic pilgrimage connections, a megalithic monument and walking trails, each offering its own points of reference for planning a trip.
Discover more destinations: Montazeau, Bonneville-Et-Saint-Avit-De-Fumadières, Orliaguet, Allemans, Carsac-De-Gurson, Saint-Michel-de-Montaigne, Lusignac, Chenaud.
For the full travel guide: Dordogne.
