Culture
Gers-Gascony | Culture
Discover the architectural gems that criss-cross the Gers, travel through some of the most beautiful villages of France - Fourcés, Larressingle, Montréal-du-Gers, Sarrant and take time to visit World Heritage sites such as the cathedral of Sainte-Marie d'Auch, the collegiate church of La Romieu, and the bridge of Artigue.
From prestigious sites to museums of the art of everyday living, visiting the Gers is your opportunity to discover a living culture, blending century-old heritage with thriving contemporary art. A great experience awaits you in Flaran Abbey, which houses the Simonow exhibition of works by artists like Monet, Renoir, Braque and Picasso. Flaran Abbey also has a unique exhibition dedicated to the Saint-James of Compostela pilgrimage routes.
In the Gers, each season is filled with an explosion of music, laughter and emotion. A spirit of sharing and a love of festivity is present in all occasions, whether they're simple or sophisticated.
Summer in the Gers is the season of rejoicing. July and August herald the Jazz, Latino, Country and Classical music festivals. Bands and artists get together in our towns and villages and the music is extremely popular, attracting international acts and audiences. Bullfighting, traditional bull-running, car races and traditional games liven up the region and remind us that Gascons are cousins of the Spaniards. On the occasion of the third Artagnan Festival in August 2015, a new statue of the most famous man of Gascony will be unveiled.
When autumn arrives, don't think for a second that the region falls asleep! From the flames of the stills and the hand-crafted nativity scenes in the villages to the twinkling lights and busy atmospheres of Christmas markets, numerous cultural activities will inspire you to keep developing friendships and a desire to celebrate.
Spring in the Gers certainly washes away the winter blues, particularly in Fourcés, where a bright flower festival welcomes in the warmer months.
Treat yourself to a relaxing, lively and festive holiday throughout the year.
Auch
Auch embodies the Gascon art of living with flair. Towering above the town, you cannot help but admire the majestic collection of buildings: the Tour d'Armagnac (Tower of Armagnac), the Cathedral of Sainte-Marie and the Prefecture (former archiepiscopal palace). The cathedral is listed on the World Heritage register as an important stopping-off point on the Way of Saint James pilgrimage route.
With its 374 steps connecting the top and bottom of the town, the Escalier Monumental d'Auch (Monumental Staircase of Auch) is decorated with the statue of D'Artagnan. Next to the monumental staircase are the Pousterles, narrow, stepped alleyways that wind down to the river. These were formerly used by residents to fetch water. You will also enjoy the Musée des Jacobins with its second-largest collection of pre-Colombian art in all of France!