Autoire | Things to See and Do in Autoire
Autoire
Autoire is a commune in the Lot department of the Midi-Pyrenees region. The village is set in pretty countryside surrounded by vineyards forests and limestone cliffs. it is a traditional Quercy village constructed from the light stone of the area. Behind the church of St Pierre you can get wonderful views along the valley.
The village is a designated “Le plus beaux villages de France” – a beautiful village of France – and sits on a stream that has the same name as the village.
History
Autoire’s known history can be dated back to the 11th century. The village was under control of the baronies of Castelnau then Gramat Autoire and later became a vassal city of the Viscount of Turenne. Under this protection the city suffered little during the 100 years war, however when ruled by Viscount William of Beaufort it was besieged by the English who already had successful campaigns in Haut Quercy and ruled much of the area. The town was devastated in 1562 during the War of Religions by the Calvists and remained in turmoil until 1582.
Today it is a pretty little village which in spring is loaded with flowers throughout the streets.
Things to See and Do in Autoire
Church of St Pierre
This church dates from 11th and 12th centuries, there is a magnificent view from the rear of the building.
Town Hall
The town hall has been restored to its former glory.
Fountain
The fountain in the village square
English Castle
This castle is perched on the cliff-side on a rocky overhang and is a reminder of England’s dominance of this area during to 100 years war.
Cirque d’Autoire and Waterfall
Near the village is a waterfall and the Cirque d’Autoire which is an impressive 30 metre high cascade. Below the waterfall is a lovely pond.
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