Auch, visit the historic capital of Gers

Today, we're heading to the magnificent town of Auch, crossed by the Gers River. It's a countryside town where life is good for a pleasant backpacking trip. Between its rich heritage, historical monuments, narrow streets, gastronomy and small shops, what a pleasure to escape for the day! Follow the Gers Guide for a privileged visit to Auch.

Museum of the Americas - Auch

A walking tour full of discoveries

The parking lot of the old cloister is convenient for free parking while being close to the city center, not far from the Sainte-Marie Cathedral, the monumental staircase and the Armagnac tower (former prison and court of the ^14th century). This district, one of the richest in terms of historical heritage of the city, leads you to the monumental staircase of Italian inspiration.

Once at the top, take the time to admire the fabulous panorama which offers a glimpse of the Pyrenees mountain range, before going down a few levels. All different, they reveal magnificent fountains and sculptures, true Roman compositions with a bohemian and romantic allure. One of the levels has the Observatory of Time, a contemporary sculpture created by Jaume Plensa. It is a text written entirely in Latin which uses the word NOAH many times. By deduction, it is therefore an extract from the Bible concerning the Flood.

Further on, the famous musketeer d'Artagnan appears, proudly admiring and protecting the city of Auch and its inhabitants. He's not immune to a few selfies, but he remains very professional, standing at attention, like a valiant Musketeer.

A surprising cathedral to visit

As you go back up to the upper town, you will discover the cathedral, which resembles Notre-Dame de Paris. You can also visit the cathedral's treasury every day from June to September. The rest of the year, visits are open to groups, by appointment. Don't hesitate to look up; you might see Napoleon's column and the fresco commemorating his visit to Auch in 1808.

The cathedral is open from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., but the choir closes a quarter of an hour before closing time. You will see 113 wooden stalls representing more than 1,500 figures. There is a lifting platform for people in wheelchairs or with reduced mobility. Very good initiative! It is a very beautiful cathedral, with magnificent stained glass windows. It is quite pleasant to walk around the ambulatory and discover each of the small axial chapels.

The Tourist Office is located next to the Cathedral. You can find all the information about Auch and its surroundings, maps for visiting the city, as well as merchandise such as mugs and t-shirts.

Pretty alleys to explore on foot

Auch is a pretty medieval town with half-timbered houses and narrow, winding streets, including Rue Dessoles, one of the most commercially active. Take the time to appreciate every detail, from the beautiful old doors to the small vintage boutiques and gourmet restaurants offering delicious local produce.

A little further away is the Musée des Jacobins and its extensive collection of Gallo-Roman and medieval archaeological finds, as well as Latin American sacred art and Egyptian antiquities. You can visit it for a few euros, while those under 18 are free. The museum is also free on the first weekend of each month. Opening hours vary depending on the season, with an annual closure in January.

As you walk up Rue du Musée, you pass the Halle aux Herbes before coming face to face with the cathedral once again. Head to the Palais de Justice to meet Monsieur d'Etigny, the steward of King Louis XV, and his beautiful philosophical words. Enjoy a beautiful view of the grand boulevards and the cathedral.

Auch is also home to several restaurants, each one as tempting as the next. You'll find good wines, Armagnac, but also duck dishes ! The streets of this quiet and pleasant town smell amazing!

A visit to Auch is exciting, rich in discoveries with a unique and remarkable heritage. The Gers Guide hopes to have charmed you through the capital, and leaves you to continue your day in the beautiful city of Auch to discover new hidden treasures.

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