Bastide of Valence-sur-Baïse

The Bastide of Valence-sur-Baïse is a typical example of the movement of construction of new towns during the 13th and 14th centuries in the South-West of France and notably in the Gers in Gascony.

Located south of Condom, at the confluence of two rivers, the Baïse and the Auloue, the village was founded in 1274, following the paréage contract between the Abbey of Flaran and Count Géraud d'Armagnac.
Perched on a promontory 600 m long and 150 m wide overlooking the valley by more than 60 m, it was surrounded by a ring of walls 8 m high, of which significant remains still exist all around.
The ramparts, on the south side, follow the contours of the rocky spur adorned with wild flowers (irises, wallflowers, sedum) and enormous clusters of prickly pears.
Of the four original gates that gave access to Valencia, only the one known as the Hérisson or Spanish Gate remains. Built on a large water table, Valencia has a large number of wells, several of which adorn the square.
It has retained its typical orthogonal layout as well as its central square. This is bordered on three sides by roofs, except on the northwest, occupied by the church. The religious building is flanked by 2 towers and has a nave ending in a flat chevet. One of the buttresses would tell us about its construction date: 1303, engraved in Roman numerals.
Extensively remodeled over the centuries, inside you can admire a 19th century altarpiece dedicated to “the Glory of St. John the Baptist”.

Since 2025, Valence has been awarded the "Village in Poetry" label. This national prize recognizes municipalities that give poetry a prominent place in local life and in municipal cultural policy.

Find the tour guide for the bastide and the treasure hunt "The Bastide Phenomenon" (price €3 with a reward) in the Tourist Offices

What if you took the Clé des Champs?
"So far, yet so near..." 60 steps to climb the church. 60 steps that connect Gascony to the Pyrenees. From the viewpoint, the majestic mountains will be there... or not! The Pyrenees are seen when you least expect them.
To get there, follow the direction of the city center. Parking on the village square. The church is open during the day: enter and climb the bell tower through a small door on the left.

Throughout the year, the village also offers a unique tour with two interpretive trails: "In the Footsteps of the First Valencians" and "The Bastide Discovery Trail." Even more unusual, marvel at "The Fairy Path," lined with charming miniature houses.

Theme(s) : farmhouse, historical heritage, town/village, medieval city.