Founded in 1222 by Raymond VII, Count of Toulouse, the bastide town of Cordes-sur-Ciel was built to oppose the advance of troops from northern France who had come to fight the Cathars.
The town quickly became very prosperous thanks to the trade in cloth, silk, and leather, attracting wealthy merchants and nobles who built luxurious residences such as the Maison du Grand Fauconnier, the Maison du Grand Veneur, and the Maison du Grand Ecuyer.
Other Gothic-style palaces were also built behind these fortifications.
Dominating the Albi region, Cordes-sur-Ciel offers a wealth of treasures along its steep narrow streets, including a large number of sculptures, particularly on the facades.
Cordes-sur-Ciel is also a city of artisans and artists: sculptors, painters, ceramists, and more.
Finally, no visit to the town would be complete without a visit to the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. Located in one of the most beautiful houses in the village, the Maison du Grand Fauconnier, this museum houses more than 150 contemporary works representing the major artistic movements of the 20th century. You should also stop at the enchanting Art du Sucre or the Jardin des Paradis, a natural garden classified as a “Remarkable Garden” that surprises visitors with its water features and scents.
Not to mention, under the 13th-century market hall, the well dug into the rock to a depth of 113 m, which retains all its mystery.
In July, don't miss the Grand Fauconnier festival, where everyone has fun in period costume.
To better understand Cordes sur Ciel, reread Albert Camus' quote: “The traveler who, from the terrace of Cordes, looks at the summer night knows that he need not go any further and that, if he wishes, the beauty here, day after day, will take him away from all loneliness.” It gives an idea of the beauty of the site.
Tourist Office
Maison Fonpeyrouse
34 Grand Rue Raimond VII - BP 29
81170 Cordes sur Ciel
Tel.: +33 (0)5 63 56 00 52
www.cordessurciel.fr
Cordes Town Hall
Maison Fonpeyrouse
34 Grand Rue Raimond VII - BP 29
81170 Cordes sur Ciel
Tel.: +33 (0)5 63 56 00 40
mairie@cordessurciel.fr
Translated with DeepL.com
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