Saint-Flour, Medieval hilltop town in Cantal, France.
Saint-Flour is a commune in Cantal built on a high plateau of volcanic origin, extending over two levels. The upper town sits atop the cliff and offers a sweeping view over the surrounding valleys and hills of Auvergne.
The settlement grew during the Middle Ages around a Benedictine priory, which was elevated to a bishop's residence from 1317 onward. This elevation to an episcopal seat strengthened its political and religious importance in Auvergne for several centuries.
The upper town houses centuries-old residential buildings made from dark volcanic stone, their facades lining narrow lanes that show the local building style of the region. Several squares serve as meeting points for locals, where markets and events unfold that have shaped community life for generations.
The old town is reachable on foot, though steep climbs mark the access to the upper town and can be demanding for those with mobility issues. A walk through the lanes takes about an hour and pairs well with a visit to the cathedral.
The lower town along the riverbank developed later as a residential and trade zone, giving both districts different building structures and rhythms. This spatial division still shows in daily life today, as residents move between the levels.
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