Small in size but full of charm, Rue Beauville is one of those must-see little corners when exploring Agen. You might only see the entrance from where you’re standing, but it’s well worth stepping inside. A few steps in, and you’re transported to the 15th century, when the city was being rebuilt after the Hundred Years’ War. What makes this place so striking is its picture-perfect setting, a tiny time capsule that bears the marks of its rich past. Rue Beauville is a tiny labyrinth of narrow streets and centuries-old houses ready to tell their stories, if only they could speak. The façades and rooftops have been listed as historic monuments since 1993, a well-earned honour, especially when you see the beautiful half-timbering. This traditional medieval building technique, using exposed wooden frames, wasn’t just for looks. The overhanging upper floors helped carts pass more easily at street level and reduced property taxes, which were based on the ground footprint. Saved from decay in the 1970s and recently put up for sale, Rue Beauville isn’t just a historical gem, it’s a living part of Agen’s identity, tucked away in plain sight.