What could be more charming than a medieval village in the south of France?
Villefranche de Rouergue (there are three towns in France with the name Villefranche!) is situated in the south of France, about 90 minute by train from Toulouse. The village was founded in 1252, and it retains much of its medieval architecture. The population is 11,271 inhabitants.
Villefranche hosts an annual summer opera festival, the Festival Opéra Bastide, which brings singers from across the globe for performances, recitals, concerts, masterclasses, and outreach events for children and senior citizens.
The main performance venue is the Theatre Bastide, but a number of chapels and market halls also serve as performance spaces.
Crime doesn't appear to be a big problem in Villefranche, based on the state of their police cars.
One of the most enjoyable occasions in Villefranche happens every Thursday, when vendors from around the countryside bring their wares to market in the the town's main square. (This weekly market has been operating, pretty much without a break, for the past 800 years!) Like any good French market, you'll find fresh fruits and vegetables, a delectable array of cheeses, spices, flowers, soaps, and handicrafts. (Don't miss the nuns selling their homemade marmalade from the portico of the cathedral!)
Also on market days, artists of the Festival Opéra Bastide sing to the gathered crowd from the windows of a stately house (the Maison Dardenne) fronting the main square. This program, Fenêtres Ouvertes (Open Windows), is a favorite with people attending the market, and helps to promote the festival's performances and events.
On June 14th, everyone in the area gathers in town along the river for fireworks to celebrate Bastille Day.
Of course, France is renowned for its cuisine, and there are incredible meals to be found everywhere in town. But in case you want something simple, fast, and easy, there is a kiosk that sells whole pizzas made by a machine. These pizzas won't win awards, but when you want some cheap pizza (especially on a Sunday, when most restaurants are closed) this options is perfectly fine!
More images of Villefranche...
