Caylus

the Causses du Quercy adventure

The medieval town of Caylus

In the heart of the Causses du Quercy

In the heart of the causses medieval town of Caylus is surprising. It was built around a castle, the Castrum de Caylus, which has now partly disappeared. A merchant town in the Middle Ages, it has preserved some of the rich houses from this period, including the House of Wolves. Enter the old town center and stroll through the narrow streets to discover the history of this village. right street to stop at Saint-Jean-Baptiste church and discover the Christ by Ossip Zadkine. Pass in front of the Gauléjac pavilion and finish your turn at circus of Labarthe.

from the Middle Ages to today

The history of Caylus

Situated on the Quercy limestone plateaux, Caylus is a medieval village that has stood the test of time and history.

In the Middle Ages, Caylus underwent significant development and established itself as an important commercial crossroads. Formed around a castle, Caylus was built on a rocky outcrop and takes its name from castellum, The castle's central role in the town's foundation. From the 12th century onwards, Caylus grew up at the foot of this fortress. In the mid-13th century, it became the administrative center of one of the most important castellanies of Quercy, which then extended to include to the gates of Cahors. At 1211, the village was burnt down during the crusade against the Albigensians. The town was rebuilt after 1226 and extends beyond its original walls. Visit MARKET PLACE, The building, lined with galleries, dates from 1247 while the hall which sits at the center, was created in 1505.

Paul Féval's famous “Hunchback” character is said to have been inspired by a local legend, the Chevalier de Lagardelle, who brought down the Livron Dragon.

Tourism in Caylus

Discover Caylus

Overlooking the Bonnette Valley, The village of Caylus has a rich history! It has preserved its medieval past through its surviving square tower of the royal castle but also among the details that some notable houses have retained. This is the case of the House of Wolves that appeals to passers-by.

Caylus is also home to a remarkable church, Saint-Jean-Baptiste church, an architectural masterpiece Gothic from the 13th and 14th centuries. Discover the Christ by Ossip Zadkine top of 5.40 metres and carved in a single trunk of abalone wood.

The village is also famous for its regional festival, the potters' market, held every year in mid-August, brings together local ceramists and potters.

When the weather's nice, take advantage of the circus of Labarthe, A wetland protected for its local flora and fauna. Take the time to walk around the lake, following the directions for the “Roger le brochet” interpretation trail” and relax by the water. In summer, enjoy the lively evenings at the guinguette du lac.

don't miss a thing

Caylus

Tour map

Click here for a map of Caylus. A self-guided tour is available, with a brief description of the village's historic sites and monuments.

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don't miss a thing

causses & gorges de l'aveyron

Map of the territory

Download the region's tourist map to help you plan your stay. You'll find all the tourist sites to visit.

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The place to be for moving

Outdoor activities in Caylus

Nestled on the Quercy limestone plateaus, the village of Caylus and its surrounding area is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. a veritable playground for outdoor activities. It represents a milestone on the’GR46 itinerary which links Tours (Indre-et-Loire) to Toulouse (Haute-Garonne) via Caylus and Saint-Antonin. Caylus also offers 5 Petites Randonnées loops and 2 cyclo loops on shared roads. Its cirque is a veritable natural haven where you can observe the flora and fauna typical of wetlands. In summer, enjoy the guinguette éphémère du lac, ideal for an evening out or a refreshing break.