Murat-sur-Vèbre in Murat-sur-Vèbre

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Located on the Via Tolosana, the pilgrimage route linking Arles to Santiago de Compostela, Murat-sur-Vèbre is a charming and authentic village.

Built on the banks of the Vèbre, the river that partly gave the village its name, Murat—whose name is thought to derive from the Latin muratum, meaning "enclosed by walls"—lies beneath the rocky outcrop of the Castelas, once crowned by a medieval castle. The village stands at the heart of a vast municipality that formerly comprised four parishes, whose churches still remain today.

Until the French Revolution, the local community was known as Boissezon de Matviel. Following the Revolution, Murat became the administrative centre of the canton.

However, Murat's history stretches back much further. The first farmers and livestock breeders of the Late Prehistoric period (3300–2200 BC) carved and erected the remarkable statue-menhirs found throughout the Monts de Lacaune. Discovered more than a century ago, these mysterious monuments continue to intrigue archaeologists. This fascinating period is brought to life at the Megalith Interpretation Centre, opened around fifteen years ago, where the region's most iconic statue-menhirs are displayed.

Like many neighbouring villages in the Tarn, Murat was deeply affected by the Wars of Religion during the 16th century. Later, the arrival of the Petit Train, together with the construction of major roads and bridges linking the area with Lower Languedoc, greatly improved transport and trade.

Like La Salvetat-sur-Agout and Anglès, Murat is an important stop on the Via Tolosana, where pilgrims enjoy the lush landscapes and refreshing climate. This historic pilgrimage route is celebrated every year during Saint James' Day, on 25 July.

Don't miss: the Megalith Museum, Saint Stephen's Church, the remains of the Boissezon Tower and Canac Castle, the 12 km Tourelles Trail, the Plo de Canac Trail (with castle ruins), and Narulle Mill.