"They all lived in the period we know today as medieval, or The Middle Ages, which began in Europe during the 5 th century AD after the fall of the Western Roman Empire and carried on for roughly a thousand years to the advent of the Renaissance. And wherever you travel around the Hexagon - the French name for mainland France - you are never far away from some aspect of medieval life."
"France is blessed with a surprising number of medieval villages, including one of the most popular for visitors - Mont-Saint-Michel, a medieval time warp off the coast of Normandy. Many villages are members of the Plus Beaux Villages Association like Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert and Rocamadour, both stopping places for pilgrims on the St James's Way; wander amongst the golden stones of Oingt overlooking the Beaujolais vineyards; and explore the world of the Templars and Hospitallers at La Couvertoirade. Each one has its own story to tell."
"As you walk, remember that many of the villages we see today were far bigger and busier than they are now. Look closely at the street names to find out more. Rue des Tanneurs would once have throbbed to the noise (and smells!) of the leather industry, whilst the heart of any local weaving industry would be found in Rue des Tisseurs. And even if a castle no longer stands in Place du Chateau, many communities still boast medieval fortifications."
The medieval period in France spanned roughly from the 5 th century AD to the Renaissance, leaving a pervasive material legacy across the country. Numerous villages, including Mont-Saint-Michel and members of the Plus Beaux Villages Association, retain medieval layouts, stonework and pilgrimage connections such as the St James's Way. Street names like Rue des Tanneurs and Rue des Tisseurs record former industries, while many towns still display fortifications, castles, churches and merchant streets. The presence of Templar and Hospitaller sites and famous historical figures reflects a layered social and religious landscape that shaped regional identities.
Read at The Good Life France
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