Village of Larressingle

Classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France® and the Great Sites of Occitanie, under the title "Armagnac Abbey and Cities", this smallest fortified village in France presents a beautiful architectural ensemble from the Middle Ages, remarkably preserved.

Surrounded by a dry moat, its impressive 13th-century ramparts are topped with crenellated towers. The recently restored old drawbridge leads into this unmissable village in the Gers region. There, one can discover the remains of the former castle of the abbots and later bishops of Condom (closed to the public), a fortified Romanesque church, and houses built against the rampart.

Larressingle truly enters history at the beginning of the 11th century, when the abbots of Condom became the lords of the manor. The fortifications were built in the 13th century. The castle keep was remodeled by the bishops of Condom until the 16th century. Then, they abandoned it to reside at the Château de Cassaigne. The population gradually left the medieval walls to settle on the outskirts of the village.
In 1921, Édouard Mortier discovered a city largely covered in vegetation and virtually uninhabited. The founder of the Association for the Preservation of French Art undertook restorations, financed by American patrons from the Boston Committee.

Throughout the year, stroll through this unique village, affectionately known as "the little Carcassonne of Gers".

Between May and September, follow the guide, who will reveal the secrets of this place's history.
As a family, try the treasure hunt (3 euros with a reward): "Conquering the fortified city of Larressingle" on sale in the Tourist Offices of Condom, Larressingle and Montréal-du-Gers, Two versions to choose from depending on the age of the children.

Details concerning animals : Animals kept on a leash.

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