Monsegur

Visit Monsegur, Aquitaine

The town of Monsegur is a bastide town, situated on the Dropt river in south-east Gironde. This part of the countryside, between the Dordogne and the Garonne is known as Entre-Deux-Mers. (There are several places called Monsegur in France, be careful if booking a 'hotel in Monsegur' that you have found the one you are looking for!)

Exploring Monsegur

Founded in the 13th century Monsegur is an 'English' bastide (i.e. founded by the English when they occupied the region) and has all the characteristics of a typical bastide - a central square surrounded by covered arcades and straight roads radiating off from the centre, interconnected by even narrower alleys.

There is also a church (the Church of Notre Dame dates from the 13th century and contains some interesting stone carvings) and half-timbered houses to enjoy. The traditional market hall that once stood in the centre of the square has now been replaced by a 19th century hall in ironwork and glass - perhaps rather larger than the original it dominates the central square.

Another notable feature is the so-called Governor's tower, built in the 15th century to house the staircase of the Governor's house and with several interesting decorative features around the entrance doorway.

Monsegur is slightly unusual in that a significant part of its original defensive ramparts remain intact, and offer the chance to walk the 2km around the town while enjoying the attractive views across the Dropt valley and surrounding countryside.

Market day is Friday in Monsegur, a good time to visit to see the town at its liveliest - be sure take the time to sit in a cafe in the square and watch the world bustling by after buying your fruit and vegetables.

Attractions nearby

Many of the most popular and interesting towns and villages in the area follow the Dropt river as it flows westwards - see information of some of the highlights at Dropt Valley.

Photos of Monsegur (click any picture to start the gallery)

Suggested places to visit near Monsegur, France

Distances shown are direct, driving distances will be greater.

More suggestions: Allemans-du-Dropt 17km; Eynesse 20km; Miramont-de-Guyenne 23km; Montcaret Archaeological site 23km; Sainte-Foy-la-Grande 24km; Eymet 25km; Lauzun 30km; Cadillac Chateau 32km; Saint-Emilion 33km; Abbey de la Sauve-Majeure 34km; Casteljaloux 37km; Libourne 39km; Bergerac 39km; Castillonnes 40km; Issigeac 42km; Villereal 52km;

See these places and more on a map at places near Monsegur

Monsegur tourism: sights and attractions nearby

Jardins de Beauchamp - remarkable garden (17km) : Jardin du cloître Notre-Dame - remarkable garden (17km) : Jardins du Sardy - remarkable garden (23km) : Parc et potager de Pouthet - remarkable garden (25km) : Jardins du château de Malle - remarkable garden (31km) : Collégiale et chapelle de la Trinité (Saint-Emilion) - religious monument (33km) : Abbaye de la Sauve Majeure (La Sauve) - religious monument (34km) : Eglise de Saint Pierre (Petit-Palais-et-Cornemps) - religious monument (38km) :

French version: see Monsegur (Francais)