Experience the Loire Valley Home Page

Gargilesse-Dampierre

One of 'Les-Plus-Beaux-Villages-de-France',Gargilesse-Dampierre is in the department of Indre here in Centre-Val de Loire. Sitting to the east of the valley of the river Creuse it is classified as one of "The most beautiful villages of France" and it is indeed a pretty place.

Walking through this Berry village's delightful streets you are following in the footsteps of George Sand who fell under the charms of the village, She has been followed by many painters who have also been seduced by the picturesque surroundings. This strong artistic heritage is now reflected in the many art galleries around the village.

 

The back of many of its houses sit dramatically on the edge of the river Gargilesse from where the village takes its name.

 

The chateau in the village now plays host to a contemporary art gallery. An in-depth history of the chateau can be seen here
The dovecote of the chateau serves as a tourist office during the summer months.

 Another attraction in the village is the 12th century Romanesque Church of Notre Dame with its large crypt decorated with fresco paintings from the 12th and 15th century plus a statue of the Virgin Mary bought back from the crusades by a Lord of Gargilesse

 

Beautiful villages

Back to towns & villages