CENTRE HISTORIQUE DE MENDE

Mende, very early Christianized, owes its development to the rise of pilgrimages to Saint-Privat. In the 13th century the town of Mende was concentrated in what is now the town centre, delimited by the boulevards and formerly the ramparts. It was then cut into five sections (5 quarters). The pan of "Auriac" undoubtedly the oldest district of the city, it brought together craftsmen and other small trades. The pan of "Aygues-Passe" ("passing water"), owes its name to the inclination of its streets, where the water flowed freely during cleaning. The section of "Champnau" real land reserve intramural, it welcomed the polluting activities of the city, the tanneries of the calquière. It became urbanized in the 18th century and brought together a large group of private mansions. The pan of "Chastel" is the old commercial district of the city, in particular around the butcher's shops grouped together in Mazel. the section of "Claustres" was the largest in the city and is located between Place Urbain V and the Foirail. Its comes from the fact that it was reserved for clerics and in particular for the canons of the cathedral. Crossing the narrow streets with medieval charm, you will discover very diverse facades (half-timbered and half-timbered houses, cross windows, classic pediments...), small oratories, squares with discreet charms as well as very many doors old (more than 60). The Tourist Office of Mende Cœur de Lozère regularly organizes guided tours of the historic center and its Gothic cathedral . A tour guide will make you discover Mende, its history, its architecture through a complete or targeted visit depending on the case. You will discover places that can only be visited with a guide: - the 19th century pharmacy of the old hospital , - the wedding hall of the town hall , - the tower of the penitents . Find out more about the historic center of Mende (info, timetables & prices). You have the opportunity to discover a large part of the city's heritage on your own. For this, we advise you to obtain the Heritage of Mende brochure to download or available free of charge at the Tourist Office. Good visit !

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