Montpellier, Medieval university city in Occitania, France
Montpellier is a city in the Hérault department on the French Mediterranean coast, located roughly 10 kilometers inland. The old town consists of narrow lanes with sandstone façades, wide promenades and tree-lined boulevards distributed around several central squares.
The settlement arose in the Middle Ages as a trading post and grew rapidly after Pope Nicholas IV founded a medical faculty here in 1289. During the religious wars of the 16th century, the city changed several times between Catholic and Protestant control.
Students shape the streetscape and fill cafés and bookshops during the day, while locals gather in shaded squares in the evening to chat or play pétanque. Many open markets sell regional products, fresh vegetables and Provençal specialties that have been passed down through generations.
The main railway station sits east of the center and is connected by tram to all neighborhoods, including lines running to the coast. On hot summer days, a visit in the morning or late afternoon is advisable, when the narrow lanes still offer shade.
Below the streets of the old town lie remains of medieval walls and vaulted cellars that keep emerging during construction work. Part of the former city fortifications is now integrated into the façades of houses and shops.
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