Magical Sarlat – France’s Most Beautiful Medieval Town

Magical Sarlat – France’s Most Beautiful Medieval Town

A labyrinth of narrow alleys, stone facads, and centuries old buildings, Salah is one of the best preserved medieval towns in all of France, and its architecture tells a story of a time where bishops and merchants shaped his streets, and much of that history still stands untouched. Welcome to Salah, Canada. [Music] Widely regarded as one of France’s most beautiful towns, Salah Lanida is a remarkably wellpreserved example of a 14th century medieval settlement. Tucked in the heart of the Deoin Valley is cobbled streets, golden limestone facads and traditional lo tiled roofs offer a vivid window into the past. Modern development has largely bypassed Hala, allowing its narrow lanes, inner courtyards, and open squares to retain their authentic medieval character. The history of Salah really begins with the Middle Ages about the year 1000. A small village grew up made of wood typical of the era. The village prospered, built a church, and retained a bishop. Later, the Romanesque cathedral was constructed, which still stands today. But then there were troubles. The wooden buildings were all destroyed by warfare and a big fire and had to be replaced and rebuilt all at once. It was decided to rebuild Salah in stone. So from about 1450, in just 50 years, the whole town that we see today was constructed. Timber frame houses and stone town houses align the streets creating the atmosphere of a historic market town that continues to thrive. The focus of the town is the main square Palas the Liberty which has a variety of purposes and functions. [Music] On market day, it’s filled with market stores. And then in the evening, the tables come out and the restaurants open up. So, this really is the central focal point of the town with little alleys and lanes leading out from it in every direction. As you walk around in the heart of Salah, you’ll come across narrow passage alleys that mysteriously lead from one courtyard space to the next. It’s like a maze, a medieval maze. It’s one of the richest historical sites in France. [Music] One such courtyard is the plus dum oswis, named for the traditional goose markets once held there. Today, a bronze sculpture of three life-sized geese honors the region’s kunary heritage. The square is surrounded by elegant buildings adorned with turrets, pinnacles, and carved staircases. Among these is the Mammoir de Jes, a castle-like 13th century residence that offers visitors a glimpse into the aristocratic life in medieval Salah. The house is open to the public and includes period furnishings and historical exhibits. No visit to Salah is complete without stepping aside the cathedral San Sa Cedros. Originally founded in the 9th century, the structure combines romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Its belfry and western facade are the oldest surviving elements. Just above the cathedral stands the Lanten deour. Literally the lantern of the dead. This unusual bulletshaped tower has served many functions over the centuries, including as a chapel and even a gunpowder store. Tucked just beyond Salat’s medieval center, the convent of St. Claire’s offers a quiet glimpse into the town’s spiritual past. Founded in the 13th century by the poor Clairees, an order known for their vows of silence and poverty, the convent was a place of contemplation and simplicity. Salah is an ideal size, large enough to offer rich history, vibrant markets, and a cultural charm. Yet small enough that every hidden square and cobbled alley is just a short, pleasant walk from the town center. We are Cinematic Travels and we really hope you enjoy our videos. And please like and subscribe if you do.

Today we have been filming in Sarlat-la-Canéda, one of France’s best-preserved medieval towns, located in the Dordogne Valley. With its golden limestone architecture, winding cobbled streets, and timeless charm, Sarlat offers a glimpse into life during the Middle Ages. In this cinematic documentary video, we take you through its historic squares, visit key landmarks like the Cathédrale Saint-Sacerdos, the Place du Marché aux Oies, and the Manoir de Gisson, and uncover why Sarlat is often called France’s most beautiful medieval town.

🎥 Filmed in 4K CineDocu (Cinematic Documentary) style
🎥 See “Behind the Scenes” for a quick glimpse how we filmed this documentary

🗺️ GPS Coordinates:
Sarlat-la-Canéda, France
📍 Latitude: 44.8894° N
📍 Longitude: 1.2166° E