Bellac, commune in Haute-Vienne, France
Bellac is a small commune in the Haute-Vienne region of Limousin, France, situated on a rocky hill and crossed by the quiet Vincou river. The town features houses built between the 15th and 17th centuries, a Church of Notre-Dame constructed from the 12th to 15th centuries at its highest point, two smaller chapels, and remnants of old town walls that speak to its medieval heritage.
In the 10th century, a count built a castle in Bellac to watch over trade routes, and during the Middle Ages the town grew wealthy through its tanning industry. The stone arched bridge spanning the Vincou river from the 13th century was once crucial for merchants transporting salt, wine, and fish from the coast.
The name Bellac dates to medieval times, and the town maintains its historical identity through traditional markets held three times a week where locals and visitors gather. The narrow winding streets lined with timber-framed houses from the 15th to 18th centuries still show how people lived here across generations.
The town is accessible by train from Limoges, which offers airport connections to Europe, and all necessary facilities like shops, a hospital, and a library are available in town. Visitors will find it helpful to visit the tourist office on Rue des Doctrinaires, where guided tours can be arranged for groups or individuals.
The former house of Jean Giraudoux, the celebrated 20th-century playwright, is located in Bellac and now holds interactive displays about his life and work. Also surprising is a copper and enamel shrine inside the Church of Notre-Dame that is a rare artwork often overlooked by visitors.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
