Saint-Cirq-Lapopie has incomparable charm thanks to its remarkable architecture and location.
This picturesque village is built on a rocky outcrop overlooking a wide bend of the Lot River. The history of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is marked by territorial and religious conflicts. The population here is just over two hundred. However, this does not prevent the village from remaining a popular tourist destination.
In the 10th century, the first castle was built here, which was rebuilt into a more modern fortress in the 13th century. The castle was built with funds from the prominent feudal Lapopie family, after whom the rock was named. Today, only ruins remain of these buildings. Today, on the site of the castles stands an observation deck offering the most beautiful views of the Lot River valley. A stroll through the small, narrow streets lined with half-timbered houses, clad in brick or stone, will enchant you. The ground floors are home to numerous small shops. Each street leads to the Place du Sombral. This labyrinth of alleys and courtyards underscores the charm of this medieval village.
At the foot of the Lapopie cliff stands a church built in the 12th century. It is distinguished by its square bell tower and stairway turret, perched on the cliff edge, overlooking the river valley. The church was rebuilt in the 16th century, and many fragments of frescoes from that period remain. Its interior is decorated with votive statues, one of which is dedicated to Saint Cyr, the youngest martyr in Christian history, who gave the village its name.












