Perigueux tourist information
The 'capital' of the Dordogne department is set towards the north of the region. Many miles from the Dordogne River, it is actually found on the Isle River.
The town has been in existence since neolithic times, and later became an important Roman centre. The town suffered a great deal in the Middle Ages through the Hundred Years War and other conflicts in the region, then had a 'rebirth' - and much construction in the town dates from this time - in the 16th century. From the 18th century onwards, Perigueux continues to be an important centre for the region.
Each of these periods has left its mark on the town. From Roman times, you can see the Vesone Tower and the remains of the amphitheatre, and the Chateau Barrière dates from the early middle ages.
Saint-Etienne church (once a cathedral) dates largely from the 16th century when it was reconstructed, although parts of the earlier church on the same site can still be seen.
Perigueux also contains an interesting medieval and renaissance centre, with attractive boulevards and streets lined with medieval houses to explore - these are concentrated in the region around the cathedral Saint Front, which also retains its attractive arched cloisters.
Descending to the river, there is an ensemble of particularly attractive medieval houses - the 'maison Lambert', the 'maison des consuls', and the 'hotel de Lur'. These are best admired from the bridge that crossed the river at this point.
The 'museum of art and archaeology of Perigord' is found in the town and houses important prehistoric and roman artefacts.
The town is most lively on market days, Wednesday and Saturday.
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Holidays near Perigueux: See our Dordogne Gites pages to find Perigueux gites.
