Monpazier: The Ultimate Guide to Monpazier
Monpazier is one of the most perfectly preserved 13th-century bastide towns in France, located in the southern Dordogne (Périgord Pourpre). Founded in 1284 by King Edward I of England, this model bastide features an impeccable grid layout, arcaded central square (Place des Cornières), and honey-colored stone houses with uniform dimensions, making it a masterpiece of medieval town planning and one of the "Plus Beaux Villages de France."
Famous for its architectural purity, lively Wednesday market, artisan shops, excellent restaurants, and proximity to Château de Biron, Monpazier offers an authentic, peaceful experience with a touch of sophistication. It's an ideal base or day-trip destination near Bergerac, Beaumont-du-Périgord, and the Dropt Valley.
This ultimate guide covers the best things to see and do in Monpazier, including its history, top highlights, walking routes, practical tips, and how to get there — everything you need for a memorable visit to this exquisite bastide jewel.
History of Monpazier
History of Monpazier
Monpazier was founded on January 1, 1284, by King Edward I of England (Duke of Aquitaine) as a "bastide royale" to consolidate English control in the region during the Hundred Years' War. Designed by royal architect Pierre d'Abzac, it followed a strict grid plan with uniform house plots (each 8×24 meters), wide streets, and arcaded squares for markets and defense.
The town prospered through trade and agriculture, retaining its original layout almost unchanged. It endured sieges but avoided major destruction, preserving its medieval integrity. In 1973, Monpazier was classified as one of France's "Plus Beaux Villages," safeguarding its exceptional architectural heritage and uniform stone façades.
Highlights of Monpazier
Monpazier enchants with its flawless bastide design, elegant arcaded Place des Cornières, and harmonious stone architecture. The car-free center invites leisurely strolls through perfectly proportioned streets, past historic houses, shops, and galleries. The Wednesday market fills the square with color and local produce.
Key highlights:
- Place des Cornières – Perfectly arcaded central square with 32 arches
- Medieval bastide grid & uniform stone houses
- Église Saint-Dominique – 13th-century Gothic church
- Wednesday market – Vibrant weekly market with regional specialties
- Rue des Arcades & artisan shops/galleries
- Porte de la Tour & surviving bastide gates
- Nearby Château de Biron – Dramatic hilltop castle (~10 min drive)
- Peaceful atmosphere & excellent restaurants
Walking Tour – Things to See and Do in Monpazier
A visit to Monpazier typically takes 2–4 hours (longer on market day). Park in free lots around the perimeter (center is pedestrian with flat, easy streets).
1. Place des Cornières – Start in the iconic arcaded square. Admire the 32 arches, café terraces, and symmetry. Wednesdays bring the famous market with fresh produce, cheeses, and crafts.
2. Église Saint-Dominique – Visit the 13th-century Gothic church at the square's edge for its simple yet elegant interior.
3. Bastide Streets – Walk the grid layout: Rue des Arcades, Rue de la Porte de la Tour. Admire uniform house façades, mullioned windows, and medieval details.
4. Porte de la Tour & Gates – Explore surviving bastide gates and remnants of the old walls.
5. Artisan Shops & Galleries – Browse galleries, craft shops, and boutiques for local art, pottery, and regional products.
6. Relaxation – Enjoy a meal at a square restaurant or café, soaking in the atmosphere.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes (flat streets). Visit Wednesdays for market energy. Combine with Château de Biron (~10 min drive). Check tourist office for guided tours.
Getting to Monpazier
Monpazier is in southern Dordogne, best by car; public transport limited.
By air: Nearest airport is Bergerac Dordogne Périgord (EGC, ~40-50 min drive). Seasonal low-cost flights from UK/Europe. Rent a car or taxi. Bordeaux-Mérignac (BOD) ~1.5 h for more flights.
By train: No station in Monpazier. Nearest is Bergerac (~40 min drive) or Marmande (~50 min). From Paris/Bordeaux, train to Bergerac, then taxi/car.
By car: Via D933 or N21 from Bergerac (~40 min), Bordeaux (~1.5 h), or Eymet (~20 min). Free parking around town. Ideal for rural exploration.
Tips: Car highly recommended. Scenic drives through countryside. Limited buses; book summer ahead.
Fun Facts about Monpazier
Monpazier has an exemplary bastide heritage. Here are some interesting facts:
- Founded by Edward I of England in 1284, it's considered one of the best-preserved English bastides in France.
- The grid plan measures exactly 400 × 250 meters, with house plots standardized at 8 × 24 meters — a model of medieval urban planning.
- Place des Cornières has 32 arches — no more, no less — creating perfect symmetry still admired today.
- The town has remained remarkably unchanged for over 700 years, earning its "Plus Beaux Villages de France" status.
- Wednesday market is one of the region's most picturesque, with stalls under the original arcades.
Nearby: Château de Biron
Just 10 minutes' drive from Monpazier (D53 direction), Château de Biron is one of the most dramatic and complete castles in the Périgord. This hilltop fortress, dating from the 12th to 18th centuries, features a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles, with a massive keep, chapel, and grand apartments.
Owned by the same family for centuries, it offers guided tours (interior & ramparts), stunning views over the Dropt valley, and occasional events/festivals. A must-see complement to Monpazier — combine both in one day for a perfect bastide-and-castle experience.
Quick facts: Open most of the year; admission ~€8-10; panoramic terrace; beautiful Renaissance chapel interior.