Castres, Medieval riverside town in Occitanie, France
Castres is a commune in the Tarn department of southern France, situated along both banks of the Agout River. Half-timbered houses from past centuries shape the old quarter alongside churches and public squares.
A Benedictine abbey stood here from the 7th century onward and attracted settlers. Later the settlement transformed into a center for textile production and leatherwork.
The town's name comes from the Latin word for camp or fortress. The old tannery architecture along the river reminds visitors of earlier craft traditions.
The riverside promenade and narrow streets of the old town can be explored on foot within a few hours. Between the train station and the center lies around a 10-minute walk.
Architect Le Corbusier designed one of his final French projects here during the 1950s. The building shows his characteristic approach to concrete and light.
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