The smallest village in France is just 1 hour from Bordeaux
Nestled in the Canton of Bastides, between Sauveterre de Guyenne and Montségur, Castelmoron-d'Albret holds a special title: the smallest municipality in France. With its 3 hectares of area and a perimeter of 970 meters, this charming village perched on a rocky spur overlooking the narrow valley of Ségur is a delightful little haven of history and culture.
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An authentic and preserved troglodyte village
In the heart of this medieval town dating back to the 14th century, time seems to have stood still. The troglodyte village of the past has managed to keep its old-world charm, featuring just two or three narrow streets, almost unchanged for centuries. The town’s small size is due to a historic decision by Robespierre, who, after the French Revolution, left Castelmoron-d’Albret with just a single rock, eliminating all surrounding lands to prevent any rise in power of the commune.
Between Protestant Culture and Artistic Exhibitions
Today, Castelmoron d'Albret, home to just 52 residents (including two second homes), is a place of creativity and culture. The Maison des Artisans, a community space opened five years ago, hosts artistic exhibitions, as does the former Protestant temple, which is the only standing Protestant temple in the Entre-deux-mers. The village's sole shop is run by a potter who has been there for about twenty years, continuing to promote the artisanal tradition.
A peaceful site rich in history in the land of the Bazadais
This unique site, just 1 hour from Bordeaux, offers visitors an immersion into medieval history, especially with guided tours led by Mayor André Greze every week starting from Easter. These hour-and-a-half tours reveal the secrets of a historic Protestant commune that notably hosted Jeanne d'Albret, who came to establish the temple to protect Protestant worship.
Under the shade of the Albrets, Castelmoron d'Albret is a place where history, art, and culture come together in a peaceful ambiance, far from the hustle and bustle of big cities. It’s a true journey through time, discovering an emblematic town, where the medieval past is still alive.