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World of wonders to discover in Midi-Pyrenees
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Located in the southern part of France, the Midi-Pyrenees is bordered by Massif Central to the north and the Pyrenees to the south.
The region is a relatively novel creation as it was established during the “regionalization” process of the 20th century. It is the largest region of France encompassing an area of 45,000 square kilometers.
Most of the region is rural, characterized by different kinds of agricultural activities. The departments of Haute Garonne, Gers and Tarn are crop producers, while other parts of the region are famous for their vineyards, cattle and sheep farming, as well as the production of Roquefort cheese.
The numerous tourist attractions include historical towns, vineyards, UNESCO World Heritage sites, museums, art galleries and spectacular landscapes offer the possibility of an unforgettable adventure.
Shanghai Daily proposes a three-day tour of the region.
Day 1: Toulouse
Located on the shores of the river Garonne, the regional capital, Toulouse, also regarded as the “pink city” because of its red brick buildings, is the fourth largest city in France. The city is famous for its large university population and its notable achievements in the aviation, aeronautical, space and electronic industries.
In the morning, check out the Capitolium (Town Hall) that lies in the center of the city. This scenic spot is well-known for its pink facade and its columns and statues made of marble. The Henry IV courtyard, where the king’s godson, Duke of Montmorency, was killed is also located nearby.
After the visit, tourists can have a nice cup of coffee at one of the many cafes around Place du Capitole. A visit to the St Etienne cathedral is nice in the afternoon. The uniqueness of the cathedral lies in the asymmetry and mixture of architectural styles. This is not a surprise if one takes in account that it was built over about 600 years. During this time, the architecture was changed on several occasions, while the fire of 1609 also made repairs inevitable.
Day 2: Albi
The Tarn capital Albi is a remarkable tiny cityn. Visiting the Cathedral of Saint Cecilia and the Palais de la Berbie, the bishop’s palace, is an appropriate choice as a morning program. Built during the period from 1282 to 1480, the brick-built and fortified cathedral is a magnificent piece of Gothic architecture that was built with the aim of pronouncing papal power in a region formerly dominated by heretics.
The building’s western wall is decorated by the murals of the Last Judgment. The cathedral and the nearby Bishop’s Palace compose the episcopal area of the city that was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2009.
Day 3: Rodez
Called Segodonum during Roman times, today Rodez is the capital of the Aveyron Department. A visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral is a good choice to start the day. With its spectacularly carved tower, the building is an outstanding representative of southern France’s Gothic cathedrals. Next up is a stop at Musee Fenaille and the Musee Puech, two museums in the city center.
In the afternoon stop at Soulages museum, which opened its gates to the public in 2014. Carrying the name of the Rodez-born Pierre Soulages, this museum showcases a collection of the famous artist’s work while hosting temporary exhibitions as well.
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