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Inside the old,
circular walls, the narrow roads wind snail-like round and
round in a village characterised by light and shadow, stone
and wood where the roads, the alleyways, even the shops, live
and breathe their medieval past.
Wander through the heart of this labyrinth to see medieval
stone houses side by side with the more unusual timber frame,
14th and 15th century houses peculiar to Issigeac. The
authenticity and craftsmanship of the architecture has been
wonderfully preserved.
A stroll around Issigeac in search of unusual buildings and
beautiful images inevitably leads one to the corner of the ‘Gran’rue’;
raise your eyes to the stone, arcaded Maison des Têtes (the
House of Heads) and be surprised by the sculpted wooden faces
peering down.
In the village square the Palace of the Bishops of Sarlat
stands opposite St Félicien’s Church. The impressive, 17th
century palace is an elegant example of sternly classical
French architecture. St Félicien’s octagonal bell tower,
imposing buttresses and pointed spire dominate the village
rooftops. The vaulted nave and ribbed crossing provide a fine
example of late Gothic architecture.
A favourite walk of Issigeac locals encompasses La Prevoté (the
Provost’s House) along the old town walls; it is an extremely
elegant 18th century abode whose arched dovecote overlooks the
surrounding countryside.
Issigeac is a quiet village situated in the middle of the
countryside which comes vibrantly to life with its lively
Sunday morning market and its host of annual events.
In Issigeac the pace of life is regulated only by the gentle
cooing of the wood pigeons, it invites the visitor to step
back into the past and imagine our forbears meeting around the
fountains and strolling along the river.
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