Domme
The Acropolis of the Dordogne
The Bastide of Domme, often called the Acropolis of the Dordogne, is situated on a rocky escarpment above the left bank of the river. Commanding views both upstream and downstream from the Belvédère de la Barre have inspired artists such as the American writer and water-colourist Henry Miller who loved to paint views of the river.
Domme was founded in 1283 by the French king Philip III in order to keep an eye on the English who were seeking to expand their territory and it was to play an important role during the Hundred Years’ War.
Domme does not conform to the usual pattern of a rectangular bastide as, being situated on a bluff, it needed to be walled only on the south and east sides. However, its walls and gates are very well preserved – the most interesting is the Porte des Tours which was used to imprison the Templars following the suppression of the Movement in 1307 and still has examples of their graffiti.
Market day: Thursday