Excursion in Condom

I am excited to discover the beautiful episcopal city of Condom in the Gers! Rucksack on, camera in my hands, I park not far from the covered market! I climb directly towards the 14th century Saint-Pierre Cathedral and its 16th century Gothic cloister. On the square, the Musketeers are not far: Athos, Portos, Aramis and d’Artagnan cross their swords and unify their voices to say their

motto: ONE FOR ALL AND ALL FOR ONE!

The square is really charming, beautifully planted with the Gothic style cathedral overlooking the visitors. Curious, I decide to push the big doors of this religious building to discover all its secrets! It closes at 6.30pm My first reflex was to look at the high ceilings with very beautiful Gothic vaulting.

The vaulted ceilings cross and are met by decorated groin vaults. They are incredibly well preserved and quite readable, if you know a bit of religious history! There are faces, animals, symbol of evangelists … It is sumptuous! However the most impressive feature is the gallery with its choir of stone characters … it gives a very special atmosphere and certain spirituality. I look at them; stare at them, they look as if they could talk! It is all illuminated by stained glass… Amazing! I then discover the ambulatory and axial chapels… it is really a beautiful and impressive cathedral!

I leave and contour the cathedral to arrive at the cloister. Like the cathedral, the cloister is impressive, with large corridors and many arches. It houses the cultural centre and hosts a few events from time to time. There is a beautiful view from the centre of the cloister, it is really a unique place with its very own atmosphere! This is the same architecture than in the cathedral with very beautiful vaulted ceilings.

The streets and alleys are charming. There are few half-timbered houses but overall it is more contemporary. It is a real little town with all the shops: butcher, bakery, pharmacy, restaurants, clothing shops. There is even an English corner shop close to the covered market which sell a very good range of products. Nobody is forgotten;)

Condom, it is not only an exceptional religious heritage, arts and craft are also present thanks to the Armagnac Museum. Discover this very famous Gers’ brandy and the way it is distilled. It is a good idea of visit, even for the children, and you can leave with many original presents! I loved discovering the streets of Condom as well as its fantastic historic and cultural heritage! It is a pleasant and charming town. There are beautiful things to see, either in the town or just outside: the Flaran Abbey is not far, and so is the Lot-&-Garonne!

Have a great day in Condom!

Back to "Culture and Heritage"