Guide Perigord_version anglaise

The Bishops of Sarlat took refuge in Issigeac Castle in times of plague epidemics. Today the Bishop’s Palace houses the Tourist Office.

Nicknamed the “Mushroom House” this half-timbered fairy-tale house was built with Mandacou stone.

© Philippe Roy

Listed Architectural Gems You may start your tour by the Bishop’s Palace, built around 1160, recognisable by its stone and brick turrets (photo above right) . Opposite, the Maison des Dîmes where the villagers’ tithes (a tenth of their crops) were collected by the church. Follow the “Tour de Ville” along the path of the old ramparts. From there you can observe the Provost Building. This XVIIIth century chartreuse house became the residence of the “provosts”, as Issigeac’s clergymen were known, after the abbey was closed. Then visit Saint-Félicien’s Church with great wooden polychrome statues and stained-glass windows, dating back to the French Restoration of 1871. As you pass by the Maison des Têtes (below) , look up at the grotesque figures under the windowsills and the lion holding a small animal between his paws at the angle of the first floor.

©Valérie Hubert-Cassant

© Jean-Marc Barrère

For those who enjoy copious tasty food, there’s plenty to choose from: a new menu at the Café de l’Europe; La Petite Treille, for instant satisfaction, at the heart of the market; simple family cooking at La Brucelière; a cosy halt at El Borini (opposite) facing the Bishop’s Palace; and delicious traditional cuisine at Le Relais de l’Ancienne Gare. Hearty Dishes

©Valérie Hubert-Cassant 77

© Philippe Roy

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24+1 VILLAGES OF PÉRIGORD