Traditional markets at a site that has been used for this purpose for eight centuries, along with buildings from different periods, give Sarlat-La-Canéda a clear focus for discovery. The Musée de la Truffe adds a dedicated thematic experience. When planning your trip, you can choose how to balance market life, architecture and the world of truffles.
Markets and Sainte-Marie Church
Sarlat’s traditional markets take place on Wednesdays and Saturdays near Sainte-Marie Church, at the same location as eight centuries ago. If you would like to include a market day in your travel plans, check the dates in advance, as the schedule may change.
The Marché couvert de Sarlat is located in the former Sainte-Marie Church, which dates back to the 12th century. The stalls sell local produce. Here, the ongoing market tradition and the use of a historic church building as a marketplace come together.
Architectural History and Views
The Cathédrale Saint-Sacerdos was originally a Romanesque abbey church dating back to the 12th century and became a cathedral in the 14th century. Its furnishings also span several periods: the choir stalls date from the 12th century, the altarpieces from the 17th and 18th centuries, and the organ, built by Jean-François Lépine, from the 18th century. These dates help distinguish the original building from its later furnishings.
The glass elevator at Sainte-Marie Church, designed by Jean Nouvel, offers a different view of the town. It goes up to the top of the bell tower, where a 360-degree view stretches across the medieval town of Sarlat and its surroundings. While the churches reveal the history of their construction and furnishings, the focus here is on the view from above.
The Lanterne des Morts stands in Sarlat’s former Saint-Benoît cemetery and was built in the 12th century. Its unusual Romanesque architecture includes a slender cylindrical tower, a stone cone and a rare interior dome. You can view the building for free from the Jardin des Enfeus throughout the year; the interior is not open to visitors. As visitor regulations may change, check the current visiting conditions before your visit.
A Truffle-Themed Experience
The Musée de la Truffe offers a sensory, immersive experience exploring the secrets of truffles. This provides a different focus from the markets and the architectural history of the churches and the Lanterne. The museum also offers workshops for adults and children; availability may vary. If you would like to plan a workshop, check availability in advance.
These options offer different ways to explore: the cathedral and the Lanterne introduce architectural styles and historical periods, while the bell tower offers panoramic views. The markets combine local produce with a regular weekly schedule, while the Musée de la Truffe puts the sensory experience at the center. You can tailor your trip to architecture, market life or the world of truffles without fitting every stop into the same day.
Discover more destinations: Cunèges, Le Change, Bonneville-Et-Saint-Avit-De-Fumadières, Sainte-Nathalène, Bassillac, Saint-Aulaye, Douville, Pazayac.
For the broader travel overview: Dordogne.
