The best cycling routes around Saint-Sylvestre-Sur-Lot

A first church dedicated to Saint Catherine was built in the 13th century, during the founding of the bastide. Having become too small, dilapidated, and threatening to collapse, the municipality decided on its demolition at the end of the 19th century. This monumental project would never have seen the light of day without Georges Leygues, a major political figure of the time (deputy of Lot-et-Garonne and several times minister). Thanks to his immense influence and personal fortune, he financed and championed the project to endow his hometown with an exceptional monument.

The bridge owes its name to Nicolas de Cieutat (baron of Pujols) and his son Arnaud. In 1585, they successfully led the heroic defense of Villeneuve-sur-Lot against the troops of Marguerite de Valois (Queen Margot). It initially comprised five arches and three fortified square brick towers with portcullises and machicolations, intended for the defense of the town. At the beginning of the 17th century, violent floods swept away two arches and its central tower. In 1643, by order of Cardinal de Richelieu, the bridge was rebuilt with a single monumental arch spanning 36 meters, giving it its current asymmetrical silhouette.

The architecture of Villeneuve-sur-Lot tells its story as a 13th-century river bastide, built for trade and defense. Its geometric checkerboard plan is organized around a central hub and opens onto the river. The checkerboard plan: Straight streets, typical of medieval bastides. Place Lafayette: Central square bordered by covered arcades (the cornières). The watchtowers: Fortified gates of Paris and Pujols in brick and stone. The Romanesque-Byzantine style: Used for the Sainte-Catherine church with its 55-meter high bell tower. The half-timbered facades: Medieval houses with timber framing and overhangs. The Pont des Cieutat: 13th-century structure with asymmetrical stone arches.

The Saint-Sylvestre Church depends on the Saint-Jacques-en-Vallée-du-Lot community, attached to the diocese of Agen. The current village church was built between 1863 and 1865. It houses, among other things, a beautiful 14th-century polychrome wooden statue representing Saint Peter.

The medieval alleys of Penne-d'Agenais, listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, form a true paved labyrinth that climbs the hillside for nearly 200 meters in altitude to overlook the superb Lot valley. This fortified town, often compared to a small Tuscan village due to its ochre-colored facades, warm stones, and gentle way of life, offers a real dive into medieval history.

The medieval alleys of Penne-d'Agenais, listed among the Most Beautiful Villages in France, form a veritable paved labyrinth that climbs the hillside for nearly 200 meters in altitude to overlook the superb Lot valley. This fortified town, often compared to a small Tuscan village due to its ochre-colored facades, warm stones, and gentle way of life, offers a true dive into medieval history.

Proudly overlooking the Lot valley from a height of 200 meters, this former stronghold fortified by Richard the Lionheart is officially listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. As you climb towards the summit, you will cross cobbled and flowery alleys lined with half-timbered houses. It is also an essential stop on the paths of Saint-Jacques de Compostelle.

Every Wednesday and Saturday morning, Place du Marché. They always have good attendance with a large crowd during the summer period and maintain a loyal clientele in the off-season. Local producers offer a varied selection of fresh products from our countryside.