Perched in the green landscape of Corrèze, Collonges-la-Rouge captivates with its unique brilliance. A medieval village rich in history since the 11th century, it owes its fame to the bright red hue of its buildings, made of a typical red sandstone enriched with iron oxide, which illuminates its architecture.
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Collonges-la-Rouge: An architectural brilliance within green landscapes
Nestled in the heart of the green hills of Corrèze, Collonges-la-Rouge presents itself as an architectural masterpiece, immediately recognizable by its red sandstone buildings. This medieval village, whose origins date back to the 11th century, owes its name and its fame to the flamboyant color of its buildings, made from a specific local sandstone, rich in iron oxide. This material not only gives the village its warm and welcoming appearance, but also testifies to unique geology and regional know-how.
A richly preserved heritage
The architectural panorama of Collonges-la-Rouge is dominated by robust houses, imposing castles and religious buildings, all built in red sandstone. Among these treasures, the Saint-Pierre church, built between the 11th and 12th centuries, and the 13th century Chapel of the Pénitents, stand out for their elegance and their dense history. These buildings, decorated with pepperpot towers typical of the Renaissance, tell stories of a past when the village was a crucial stopover on the road to Santiago de Compostela and a nerve center under the powerful viscounty of Turenne.
The streets of Collonges: A historical labyrinth
Exploring Collonges-la-Rouge means getting lost in a maze of narrow, winding streets that wind between centuries-old buildings. Every turn reveals facades adorned with climbing vines, workshops where artisans perpetuate ancient traditions, and cafés whose terraces invite relaxation and contemplation. These cobbled paths lead to emblematic places like the Château de Vassinhac, the former home of the Viscounts of Turenne, and the Maison de la Mermaid, which now houses enriching temporary exhibitions.
A commitment to heritage preservation
In the 1980s, faced with the rural exodus which threatened many villages, the mayor at the time, Charles Ceyrac, inspired by the book “The Most Beautiful Villages of France”, founded the association of the same name. Collonges-la-Rouge was thus the first village to be labeled, marking the start of a national movement for the promotion and preservation of French rural heritage. This initiative revitalized the village, transforming it into a model of conservation and a major tourist attraction.
Activities for all tastes
The diversity of activities available in Collonges-la-Rouge and its surroundings attracts 700,000 visitors each year in search of authenticity and adventure. Hiking trails around the village offer spectacular views of the area, while torchlight guided nighttime tours offer a fascinating perspective on its history. Gourmets can savor local specialties in the village inns or take part in tastings with regional producers, discovering the unique flavors of Corrèze.
An invitation to travel through time
Visiting Collonges-la-Rouge is taking a journey through time, encountering history, culture, and rural tranquility. The village's preserved architecture, combined with its peaceful atmosphere, makes it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the modern hustle and bustle and delve into a bygone but beautifully preserved era.
Visiting Collonges-la-Rouge is taking a journey through time, encountering history, culture, and rural tranquility.
This article explores the history and charm of Collonges-la-Rouge, a village which is distinguished not only by its red sandstone constructions but also by its pioneering role in the conservation of rural heritage. Thanks to innovative local initiatives and diversified activities, Collonges-la-Rouge has become a must for lovers of history, culture and nature.
Source : vallee-dordogne.com
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