Cité médiévale de Pérouges, Medieval district in Pérouges, France.
The medieval settlement sits on a hilltop surrounded by fortified walls with two entrance gates topped by stone towers. The streets are narrow and winding, lined with old stone buildings positioned close together, forming an interlocked structure.
The neighborhood originated around 1130 under the control of Guichard d'Anthon and rapidly developed as a center for weaving crafts. By the 13th century, it became a prosperous place whose reputation was built on the quality of its textiles.
The central plaza is marked by a lime tree over 200 years old, which remains a gathering point for visitors and locals alike. The narrow streets surrounding this tree show how life in this place revolved around this location throughout the centuries.
The neighborhood is open to visitors year-round, with restaurants and artisan workshops scattered throughout. Guided tours are available seasonally and help visitors navigate the narrow alleys and discover hidden details.
The local pastry, the Galette de Pérouges, is made from an early 20th century recipe combining thin brioche dough with lemon zest, butter, and sugar. This pastry has been the signature of the place for over a century and is produced by just a handful of bakeries in the village.
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