The best MTB trails around Lédat

A first church dedicated to Saint Catherine was built in the 13th century, during the founding of the bastide. Having become too small, dilapidated, and threatening to collapse, the municipality decided on its demolition at the end of the 19th century. This monumental project would never have seen the light of day without Georges Leygues, a major political figure of the time (deputy of Lot-et-Garonne and several times minister). Thanks to his immense influence and personal fortune, he financed and championed the project to endow his hometown with an exceptional monument.

The bridge owes its name to Nicolas de Cieutat (baron of Pujols) and his son Arnaud. In 1585, they successfully led the heroic defense of Villeneuve-sur-Lot against the troops of Marguerite de Valois (Queen Margot). It initially comprised five arches and three fortified square brick towers with portcullises and machicolations, intended for the defense of the town. At the beginning of the 17th century, violent floods swept away two arches and its central tower. In 1643, by order of Cardinal de Richelieu, the bridge was rebuilt with a single monumental arch spanning 36 meters, giving it its current asymmetrical silhouette.

The church is distinguished by the unique superposition of two clearly visible architectural styles: The Romanesque period (12th century): The original apse is built of ashlar. It features a barrel-vaulted apse and a northern side chapel, adorned with significant sculpted decoration. The Neo-Gothic period (19th century): Partially destroyed during the Wars of Religion, the historic nave underwent a major reconstruction starting in 1864 under the direction of architect Gustave Alaux. The facade and the imposing western bell tower were then rebuilt in brick, creating a striking contrast with the medieval stone of the apse.

Its vaulted choir in cul-de-four dates back to the 12th century. The building was enlarged and remodeled several times between the 13th and 19th centuries, with the addition of side chapels and a new bell tower. It retains an initial bell tower-wall with three bells, typical of the region, as well as high pillars and slender vaults. Breaking with traditional white walls, the interior has been repainted with three bright colors symbolizing the theological virtues: blue (Faith), green (Hope), and red (Charity).

Former medieval stronghold, the village is officially labeled among The Most Beautiful Villages of France. Stone, brick, and half-timbered facades surround the market hall and the central square. The village is home to the Collegiate Church of Saint-Nicolas, whose tower-belfry serves as a fortified entrance gate to the town, as well as the Church of Sainte-Foy, adorned with remarkable 16th-century frescoes. Sections of ramparts and the old gates bear witness to its military past as an Albigensian stronghold.

Former medieval stronghold, the town is officially labeled among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. The stone, brick, and half-timbered facades surround the market hall and the central square. The village houses the Collégiale Saint-Nicolas, whose tower-steeple serves as a fortified entrance gate to the town, as well as the Sainte-Foy church, adorned with remarkable 16th-century frescoes. Sections of ramparts and the old gates bear witness to its military past as an Albigensian stronghold.

Former medieval stronghold, the village is officially labeled among The Most Beautiful Villages of France. Facades of stone, brick, and timber-frame surround the market hall and the central square. The village houses the Collegiate Church of Saint-Nicolas, whose tower-belfry serves as a fortified entrance gate to the town, as well as the Church of Sainte-Foy, adorned with remarkable 16th-century frescoes. Sections of ramparts and old gates bear witness to its military past as an Albigensian stronghold.

A former medieval stronghold, the village is officially labeled among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. Stone, brick, and half-timbered facades surround the market hall and the central square. The village houses the Collegiate Church of Saint-Nicolas, whose tower-belfry serves as a fortified gateway to the town, as well as the Church of Sainte-Foy, adorned with remarkable 16th-century frescoes. Sections of ramparts and old gates bear witness to its past as an Albigensian stronghold.