History of Périgueux

Périgueux originated as Vesunna, a major Gallo-Roman city founded in the 1st century BC, with impressive remains including the Vesunna temple, amphitheater, and villa mosaics. After Roman decline, the Cité district shrank, while the Puy-Saint-Front area grew around a pilgrimage church in the Middle Ages.

The 12th-century Cathédrale Saint-Front, rebuilt in the 19th century in a Byzantine style, became the city's symbol. Périgueux prospered as a commercial and religious center, enduring sieges during the Hundred Years' War and Wars of Religion. Today, it preserves an exceptional blend of Roman, medieval, and Renaissance heritage, with lively markets and gastronomic fame.

Highlights of Périgueux

Périgueux enchants with its dual heritage: the Gallo-Roman Cité and medieval Puy-Saint-Front. The Byzantine-inspired Saint-Front Cathedral dominates the skyline, while cobbled streets, Renaissance houses, and vibrant markets create a lively atmosphere. The city is a gastronomic capital with excellent restaurants and shops.

Key highlights:

• Cathédrale Saint-Front – Stunning Byzantine-style cathedral with domes & bell tower
• Vesunna Museum & Gallo-Roman ruins – Archaeological site & modern museum
• Place du Coderc & covered market – Daily fresh produce & gastronomy
• Medieval & Renaissance streets (Rue des Farges, Rue Limogeanne)
• Tour Mataguerre – Last remaining medieval tower
• Place de la Clautre & Wednesday/Saturday markets
• Local cuisine: truffles, foie gras, walnuts, Bergerac wines
• Nearby: Château de Biron, Lascaux, Sarlat

Walking Tour – Things to See and Do in Périgueux

A visit to Périgueux typically takes 4–6 hours (longer with museum or markets). Park in central lots (some paid; pedestrian zones in old town).

1. Cathédrale Saint-Front – Start at the iconic cathedral. Admire the domes, Byzantine style, and interior. Climb the bell tower for panoramic views (seasonal).

2. Medieval Puy-Saint-Front – Wander Rue des Farges, Rue Limogeanne, and Place du Coderc. See Renaissance houses, shops, and the covered market.

3. Gallo-Roman Cité – Cross to the Cité district. Visit Vesunna Museum and the remains of the Roman temple and amphitheater.

4. Tour Mataguerre – View the last medieval tower and walk the old ramparts area.

5. Markets & Gastronomy – Visit Place du Coderc (daily) or larger Wednesday/Saturday markets for truffles, foie gras, and local produce.

6. Relaxation – Enjoy a meal at a restaurant specializing in Périgord cuisine or relax in a café.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for cobbles. Visit market days for vibrancy. Combine with nearby sites like Saint-Jean-de-Côle or Brantôme. Check tourist office for guided tours.

Getting to Périgueux

Périgueux is the main hub of the Dordogne, well-connected by train, car, and air.

By air: Nearest airport is Bergerac Dordogne Périgord (EGC, ~50 min drive) with seasonal low-cost flights. Bordeaux-Mérignac (BOD, ~1.5-2 h) for major international flights. Rent a car or train from Bordeaux.

By train: Périgueux has a major SNCF station on the Bordeaux–Limoges–Périgueux–Tulle line. Direct from Bordeaux (~1 h), Paris Austerlitz (~4-5 h via TGV + TER), Bergerac (~1 h). Central station walkable to old town.

By car: Via A89 motorway from Bordeaux (~1 h), Brive (~1 h), or Paris (~5-6 h). Free/paid parking in/near center. Ideal for regional exploration.

Tips: Car useful for day trips; train convenient for city center. Book summer transport ahead.

Fun Facts about Périgueux

Périgueux has a layered and flavorful history. Here are some interesting facts:

• Saint-Front Cathedral inspired Sacré-Cœur in Paris with its Byzantine domes.
• The city is divided into two historic districts: Gallo-Roman Cité and medieval Puy-Saint-Front.
• Périgueux is the truffle capital of the Dordogne — famous black truffles are a highlight of winter markets.
• The Vesunna temple ruins are among the best-preserved Gallo-Roman sites in France.
• The town hosts one of the region's largest markets, especially Wednesdays and Saturdays.