Thirty-nine thousand Thursday mornings in Monflanquin

Thirty-nine thousand is a sizable number, and that is approximately how many Thursday mornings the village of Monflanquin has hosted its farmers market. The bastide town and its market were founded in 1256.

Originally, Monflanquin was under the authority of the Catholics, later the Protestants rose in power. The village was built by the French, then handed over to England. This part of France seems to have a messy history, but I am enjoying the challenge of sorting through les récits historiques in order to better understand my adopted home.

View from the walls in Monflanquin

On the day of our recent visit to Monflanquin (47), un plus beaux villages de France, we park in the designated lot where there is plenty of space and stroll on a gentle uphill path to the main square. We head straight to a viewing area where signs identify villages and châteaux off in the distance. A group of Cub Scouts (at least that is what they seem to be to this mother of two Eagle Scouts) is sitting under a shady tree near Saint-André église. I snap some pictures of une voiture bizarre before taking a look inside the self-styled Romantic church.

Colorful car in Monflanquin

Looking up in Monflanquin

The helpful staff person at the office de tourisme is surprised this is my first visit to Monflanquin, given that I live fairly close by. She hands me a une carte and an English-language guide pamphlet and tells me to look for the numbered plaques throughout the village. 

A street in Monflanquin

I immediately head to the Black Prince’s House … how can I resist? It is believed the son of King Edward III of England, the Black Prince (not his real name) once stayed in this house in 1356. It is assumed the house was mostly used by the town’s VIPs: les sénéchals. But seriously, isn’t the name “The Black Prince’s House” better than “House of Political Cronies”? 

It isn’t a Thursday on the day of our recent visit, so the large market square is quiet. The restaurants and cafés look inviting, but sadly, we aren’t staying for lunch today. But save me a table SVP: I’ll be back soon and I’ll be bringing along some friends!

Monflanquin's town square

Manflanquin’s Musée des Bastides is open every day in July and August; click here for hours and details. Find out more about Monflanquin’s upcoming summer events by visiting the town’s website here.