Welcome to Sarlat, a pearl of history nestled in the heart of the Périgord Noir. This medieval city, with its cobbled streets and lauze roofs, is classified as a Ville d’Art et d’Histoire, confirming its high architectural quality. A true medieval gem, Sarlat is also known for having the highest density of listed historic monuments.
But Sarlat isn’t just a page frozen in time; it’s also a symphony of flavors, a declaration of love to gastronomy, and the scene of a vibrant market that enlivens the town with its colorful sparkles.
Sarlat, witness to the passing of time
Sarlat’s history dates back to antiquity, but it was in the Middle Ages that the town really burst into life in all its splendor. Medieval alleyways, gilded stone houses, Gothic churches and ramparts provide a vivid picture of the past. The winding lanes, witness to medieval fairs and royal revelry, invite visitors to take a stroll through time, where every street corner tells a story.
The majestic Saint-Sacerdos cathedral stands like a spiritual beacon, while the Lanterne des Morts, a moving relic, offers enigmatic testimony to life in days gone by. Preserved buildings, lively venues and secret gardens make Sarlat a living museum where history is inscribed in every stone, such as La Maison de La Boétie, a 16th-century mansion that was the birthplace of Etienne de La Boétie, philosopher, poet and magistrate, also famous for his friendship with Montaigne, and which houses a permanent exhibition on the life and work of the Sarlat author.
Gastronomie Sarladaise: A Feast for the Senses
Sarlat is also renowned for its refined gastronomy, celebrating the delights of the Périgord region. Foie gras, truffles, walnuts and local cheeses make up a symphony of flavors that delights the palates of gourmets the world over. Sarlat’s alleyways abound with gourmet boutiques, fragrant bakeries and restaurants where chefs transform local produce into culinary works of art.
Markets, veritable temples of gastronomy, offer total immersion in the wealth of local produce. Stalls brimming with colors and aromas invite you to taste, while passionate artisans enthusiastically share their secrets. The Sarlat market is a crossroads where culinary tradition meets innovation, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
The Sarlat Market: A Ballet of Colors and Flavors
Sarlat’s vibrant market is a spectacle in itself. Every Wednesday and Saturday, the town is transformed into a lively mosaic of local producers, artisans and artists. The stalls overflow with fresh produce, fragrant cheeses, artisanal charcuterie and sun-kissed fruit. A joyful ballet of colors and flavors, the market is an ode to conviviality and the richness of the terroir.
The scent of fresh truffles, crusty bread and mature cheeses wafts through the air, inviting visitors to lose themselves in the delights of the market. Merchants, proud of their products, passionately share the stories behind each food item. The Sarlat market is not just a culinary stopover, it’s a celebration of life, tradition and the pleasure of good food.
The city tours offered by the Tourist Office provide an insight into the history of Sarlat and the charms of this medieval city.
Our advice: a veritable human tide during the summer, take advantage of the off-peak hours, at dusk, or come out of season, especially for the Saturday morning market, to taste truffles, foie gras, fresh walnuts…
