Mirande
Understand
Mirande is in the beautiful Gers region and is a lively fortified bastide town, built during the 13th century and was once a must-know town in the south of Gers. Traditional in its ways, Mirande provides the visitor with a truly local French experience.
History
At the end of the 11th century, the Southwest of France was little populated. Outside the large towns like Toulouse, Auch, or Albi, the rural population was quite dispersed. In the countryside, peasants lived with the insecurity created by uncontrolled semi-nomadic people who lived in the thick forest. In this world, bastides made life a bit better, marking a movement of urbanism in the Southwest of France between 1222 with the founding of Cordes and 1373 with the founding of Labastide d'Anjou.
See
A small town it has a main square surrounded by attractive medieval arcades and an original 15th century Gothic cathedral that stands proud looking over the town.
During the month of July you can enjoy the vibrancy of Mirande’s International Country Music Festival. Mirande is also well known for other celebrations; traditional feasts, dances, concerts and plays that take place in the central square.
Do
Take a stroll around its small network of streets, visit the regular markets filled with local produce from this agricultural area and enjoy a coffee at one of its delightful cafes.
Visit the museum of Fine Arts and China.
Buy
Small selection of shops, but not a shopping mecca! Regular markets.