Church of Notre-Dame des Jacobins

Unique and full of character, the Church of Notre-Dame des Jacobins is the last surviving part of the Dominican convent founded here in 1249, in the city’s former western district. Unlike most churches built by the order, this one doesn’t follow the usual cross-shaped layout. Instead, it’s shaped like a long rectangular vessel. With its Dominican Gothic influence, the church has kept some beautiful traces of its original decor, including 13th and 14th-century wall paintings that came to light again during its most recent restoration. Even Viollet-le-Duc admired these works in the 19th century. This building has witnessed key moments in history, from the restitution of the Agenais in 1279 to solemn royal oaths, before suffering heavy damage at the hands of the Calvinists in 1561 and then being partly destroyed by a gunpowder explosion in 1585. It’s had quite a life over the centuries, serving as a stable, a prison, and even a meeting hall during the French Revolution. It now serves as an exhibition space for the Museum of Fine Arts. Listed as a historic monument since 1904, this remarkable site is well worth a visit.