Our culture & heritage favourites
Abbeys, bastides, dovecotes, vineyard huts... so many architectural elements shape the Tarn's landscape around Gaillac, arousing the curiosity of those who love to wander inside the walls of these historic places, so characteristic of the region. But what anecdotes and secrets do they hold? Come with us on a little visit!
Notre-Dame du Bourg in Rabastens
Built on the western bank of the Tarn which flows below, the church of Notre-Dame du Bourg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the entrance gate, eight sculpted capitals evoke the Middle Age remains; while the rest of the building is inspired by the southern French Gothic style. The last restoration dates from the late 19th century, wall paintings are visible as well as several elements listed as historical monuments, including an oil painting on canvas and paintings exhibited in the Musée du Pays Rabastinois.
La Maison des Vins in Gaillac
Within the Abbaye St Michel on the banks of the River Tarn, the Maison des Vins celebrates this thousand-year-old wine town, known as “La Petite Toscane” (Little Tuscany). In the heart of the Gaillac vines, which have now been awarded the "Vignobles et Découvertes" label, an experience that harmoniously combines history, art, the art of living, and hospitality awaits you. The Maison des Vins is a timeless place that offers a real immersion, inviting visitors to go back in time to learn while marvelling at the richness of the local wine heritage.
Graulhet and leatherworking
Leatherwork is a real local culture in Graulhet, capital of this craft and a major centre for fine French leatherwork. To find out about all the stages in the transformation of leather, come to the Maison des Métiers du Cuir, which welcomes craftspeople every autumn to share their expertise during the event “Graulhet, le Cuir dans la Peau”. Just a stone's throw away, you'll find a former leather factory that the town has transformed into a brewery, an old industrial leatherworking area that is now a place where malt and hops are processed. You can visit it with the "Pass Brasseur" (Brewers' Pass)!
The Archéosite in Montans
Located in the heart of the Gaillac vineyards, the Archéosite in Montans invites you to travel back in time. Go back to the time of Antiquity to understand how this little Gallic village become one of the largest centres for the production of ceramics in the Roman Empire. History, skills and tradition are the main themes of the archaeological collections and life-size reconstructions, which will allow visitors to visualise the civilisations of Antiquity.
Both parents and children can participate in the hands-on workshops and fun and educational activities, while also enjoying the temporary exhibition and the astonishing re-enactments.
The Château de Mauriac
The home of painter Bernard Bistes, the 16th century fortress of Mauriac located in the Albi-Gaillac-Cordes triangle has hosted the works for more than 50 years. Rich in history, culture and painting, the Château de Mauriac also has incredible gardens that offer a superb view over the Gaillac vineyards. Counted among the 50 most beautiful homes in France by the magazine "Art et Décoration", its interior combines Baroque style with that of Louis XIV to perfection. Also starred in the Michelin Green Guide, it is an excellent address for a gourmet break!
Find out more
Maison des Vins de Gaillac
Gaillac
Archéosite de Montans
Montans
Mauriac Castle
Senouillac
Notre Dame du Bourg
