Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Medieval village in Lot, France
Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a medieval village perched on a limestone cliff rising about 100 meters above the Lot River. Its houses and buildings follow the natural slope of the rock face, creating an organic layout of stone structures and narrow passageways.
During the Middle Ages, four local noble families - Lapopie, Gourdon, Cardaillac, and Castelnau - ruled this strategic location from their fortified strongholds. This feudal control reflected the settlement's importance as a key position along the Lot River route.
The village has drawn artists and artisans for generations, who have set up studios and workshops throughout its narrow streets. This creative presence shapes daily life and keeps traditional crafts visible in the community.
The village is accessible by bus from Cahors, with parking available at both the upper and lower sections of the settlement. The steep layout calls for comfortable walking shoes and patience when navigating the winding passages.
The village gained sudden international attention after media coverage sparked a massive increase in visitors within a single year. This unexpected surge brought both economic benefits to local businesses and new pressures to the small community.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
