St-Amand-de-Coly
The most impressive fortified church in the Périgord
St-Amand-de-Coly, north of Sarlat, is deservedly one of the Plus Beaux Villages of France with its ancient lauzes roofed houses and impressive abbey church.
Fortress-church
Constructed during the 12th Century as an Augustinian Abbey, the church builders using the local honey-coloured limestone. However, during the Hundred Years’ War it became a fortress. Today’s visitor cannot help but marvel at the sheer bulk of the place and its magnificent tower keep. Note the watch tower.
Huguenot refuge
The interior is equally stark with very high walls and it is not difficult to imagine how a small group of Huguenots were able to hold out against a large army sent by the bishop.
Look out for the fossilized remains in the stonework outside the church.