LES JUMELLES

Monflanquin, listed as one of the 'most beautiful villages of France', is a French bastide town - i.e. it was founded by the French in the 13th century, at a time when the English ruled much of this part of France.

Set on a hilltop, Monflanquin is very well preserved and generally agreed to be one of the most historically intact examples of a medieval bastide town. The central square and the surrounding streets preserve a great deal of medieval character and a visit is recommended. 

There are several car parks around the edge of Monflanquin so parking is not usually difficult. Wherever you park you will find that all streets quickly lead to the village centre and the central square in Monflanquin, the Place des Arcades. This square has beautifully preserved arcades around the edges and many other impressive buildings.

The square is also home to the weekly market each Thursday, as it has been since 1256! Unfortunately the original medieval market hall (as you can still see in Villereal, Monpazier and several other villages nearby) is no longer present in Monflanquin but several trees help preserve the pleasant ambiance. There are several good restaurants in Monflanquin, also mostly around this central square.

Perhaps most noteworthy and most impressive is the 'House of the Black Prince', at the top-right of the square. The Black Prince stayed here for a while during the Hundred Years War, and not surprisingly he kept the best house for himself, but all the corner houses have suitably impressive stone arches (arcades).

Just outside the square is the impressive 13th century Church of Saint-André, with an attractive stone entrance. In fact significant parts of the church are recent renovations including the nave and the chevet that were rebuilt in the 18th century and - although you wouldn't perhaps guess unless you look closely - the belltower was only added in the early 20th century. No matter, it still seems very well suited to the surrounding Monflanquin architecture...in fact I'm sorry for pointing it out to you because now you will notice it straightaway!

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