Castillonnès reveals its history on several levels: the bastide stands on a rocky promontory and adjoins a former fortified castle; its founding, secondary gates and Pontets each show a different aspect of its development. The Church of Saint-Pierre houses a 17th-century altarpiece, while the History and Heritage Museum displays old photographs in a permanent exhibition. You can therefore plan independent visits, a walking route linked to the pilgrimage tradition, or craft workshops by appointment as distinct highlights.

Bastide: Founding, Gates and Pontets

The bastide of Castillonnès was founded in 1259 by Alphonse de Poitiers under a paréage agreement with Cadouin Abbey and the Barons of Mons. The year of its founding and the named parties provide a specific starting point for the town’s history. Its location on a rocky promontory and its connection with the former fortified castle are two further aspects that characterize the site.

The defensive structures can also be identified in specific terms. Porte Guirlity and Porte des Valets are two secondary gates built at the same time as the ramparts to protect the bastide. The covered passageways between houses are called Pontets. They offer a different perspective from the gates and walls: as you explore independently, you can take in these architectural connections as well as the bastide’s defenses.

You can visit the bastide independently; allow about 1 hour and 15 minutes for the visit. It covers the origins and features of bastides, providing a thematic framework that encompasses both the history of Castillonnès and the architectural form of the bastide.

Saint-Pierre and the Museum: Two Ways to Explore

The Church of Saint-Pierre was built in the 13th century and can be visited independently. Its altarpiece dates from the 17th century and has been classified as a historic monument since 1959. The church’s construction date and the altarpiece’s date refer to different centuries, offering a specific art-historical point of interest for your visit.

The focus is different at the History and Heritage Museum, where the permanent exhibition displays old photographs. Explanatory materials are available in both French and English. If you are choosing between architecture and visual history, Saint-Pierre and the museum offer two clearly distinct ways to explore local history.

Walking Route and Crafts

The “Circuit de la bastide” walking route begins at the bastide and accompanies pilgrims arriving from Vézelay on their way to Santiago de Compostela. On the return leg, it passes through the small Douyne Valley. If you are interested in the pilgrimage connection and the valley landscape, you can make this route a distinct part of your travel plans.

Savonnerie Soleil de Mai offers natural soaps and cosmetics. An exhibition area is dedicated to the work of local craftspeople and producers. The venue also offers manufacturing workshops by appointment for children, families and adults. If you would like to plan a workshop, include the appointment in your arrangements.

Discover more destinations: Thézac, Saint-Pierre-Sur-Dropt, Villeneuve-Sur-Lot, Saint-Georges, Calignac, Lougratte, Dévillac, Auradou

For the broader travel overview: Lot Et Garonne.