The region

Appropriately named Cordes sur-Ciel this medieval city, perched high on the peak of a rock in the centre of a chalky plateau surrounded by green vines and forests, links  the sky with the land. Situated where the Quercy, the Rouergue and the Albigeois all meet, the city also embodies the linkage of this region with its history: Cordes-sur-ciel is one of the best examples of the region’s heritage and medieval villages.
The city was founded in 1222 by the count of Toulouse with the revival of occitan following the death of the leader of the crusades who fought against the Cathars. Cordes is the first and most important of the “bastides” towns.
The city was surrounded by two complete ramparts and only accessible via two fortified entrances. It grew quickly. The first bastide soon became inadequate  as the city enlarged and a  second line of fortifications had to be constructed. For a long time, Cordes remained the strongest place in the Albigeois.
Between 1280 and 1350 the gentry and rich merchants built luxurious dwellings and small gothic palaces, highlighted and embellished with sculptures which to-day give Cordes its reputation.
With the growth of industries such textiles, leather, commerce and finance the city grew in less than 200 years to 5000 inhabitants. The centuries which followed left their mark without changing the nature or framework of the city...

To-day, Cordes-sur-Ciel is one of the most touristic villages in the Tarn but has managed to preserve both its beauty and historical character. Its unique charms are guaranteed for many by the activities of its many artists and artisans throughout all the seasons (painters,sculptors, mosaics, leather workers, art galleries....) its cultural activities ( museums, the Colombier theatre at les Cabannes, Jardin du Paradis....) and its spectacles (especially that of les Fêtes du Grand Fauconnier).