Lavaur is a great place to live—it’s vibrant and culturally rich, and visitors stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center, where brick and half-timbered buildings blend harmoniously.
In the 12th century, Lavaur became one of the strongholds of Catharism in the south; as a result, it endured two sieges, including the bloody assault led by Simon de Montfort in 1211. Guiraude de Laurac, Lady of Lavaur, was thrown alive into a well, and 400 heretics perished in the flames of the largest pyre of the Crusade. A memorial stone on Place du Plô commemorates the martyrdom of Lady Guiraude and her protégés. The Tour des Rondes is one of the last remaining vestiges of the town’s fortifications.
Saint-Alain Cathedral, a southern Gothic building listed as a Historic Monument, is the most visited site in western Tarn, while the Jacquemart, a famous automaton, chimes the hours from the top of its square tower. The Church of Saint-François, the Esplanade du Plô and its medieval quarter, the Bishop’s Gardens, and the Allées Jean Jaurès are a delight for strollers.
More information
Guided tours: by reservation only; please contact us at 05 63 58 02 00.
Animaux acceptés : Oui
Sprache
- English
- French
Opening
Ouverture du 01 January 2026 au 31 December 2026
Pricing
A guidebook for the city’s “discovery tour,” available free of charge at the Lavaur Tourist Office.
Scheduled individual guided tours (in July/August).
Guided tours for groups: contact us at 05 63 41 89 50.
Services
Services
- Pets welcome