Sarlat-la-Canéda

Sarlat-la-Canéda is a commune in the Dordogne department in Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, with a historic center containing 77 protected monuments built from golden limestone. Narrow streets and Renaissance mansions form a dense urban fabric that concentrates around Place de la Liberté and the former abbey church.

The town grew around a Benedictine abbey founded in the 9th century, developing into an important trade center during the Middle Ages. The Hundred Years War brought destruction, but from the 15th century onward many Renaissance buildings rose that now shape the townscape.

Place de la Liberté displays numerous medieval townhouses with stone arcades, while the former church of Sainte-Marie now serves as an indoor market. The town maintains its tradition of markets with gatherings every Wednesday and Saturday, where locals sell produce, truffles and regional specialties from Périgord.

The historic center is best explored on foot, as most attractions lie within walking distance of each other. Cobblestones and uneven surfaces require comfortable shoes, especially in wet weather when the stones become slippery.

A glass panoramic elevator inside the bell tower of Sainte-Marie Church offers a full view over the old town and narrates its history during the ride. The elevator was designed by architect Jean Nouvel, who himself comes from this region.

Location: Dordogne

Location: arrondissement of Sarlat-la-Canéda

Elevation above the sea: 213 m

Shares border with: Marcillac-Saint-Quentin, Tamniès, Marquay, Saint-André-d'Allas, Vézac, Vitrac, Carsac-Aillac, Saint-Vincent-le-Paluel, Sainte-Nathalène, Proissans

Address: 24200 Sarlat-la-Canéda, France

Phone: +33553315331

Email: info@sarlat.fr

Website: http://sarlat.fr

GPS coordinates: 44.88794,1.21613

Latest update: December 14, 2025 23:24