Taulignan

Discover Taulignan, a medieval village in the heart of Drôme Provençale

The commune of Taulignan is located about thirty kilometers southeast of Montélimar, in the Drôme department. This must-see medieval village has a population of around 1,630.

Fortified in the 14th century, the medieval town has preserved 700 meters of ramparts. Eleven round towers still punctuate the fortified enclosure. The entrance gate, flanked by two towers, is a remarkable feature of the historical heritage. You will love discovering Taulignan and its medieval architecture.

Visit the medieval village

Park on the Place du 11 Novembre, shaded by plane trees. This typical Drôme Provençale square welcomes you to the heart of the village. You will be enchanted by Taulignan as you stroll through the narrow streets of the town.

The gray facades brightened by colorful shutters line the streets. The stone houses tell the story of the place. You will pass under ancient arches that give the narrow streets their charm. The Saint-Vincent church dominates the village.

Its Romanesque bell tower and weathered stone walls bear witness to its religious heritage. Visitors appreciate this beautiful church built in the 15th century. The ancient ramparts and square tower are essential parts of the historical heritage.

The History of Taulignan

History buffs will be interested to learn that Taulignan, which in the 12th century was a seigneury belonging to Bertrand de Taulignan, had as its last chatelaine Nicole de Lamoignon de Senozan, sister of Malesherbes. Imprisoned in the Conciergerie with her friend Élisabeth de France, she too was sent to the guillotine in May 1794.

That same year, the Convention ordered the destruction of the castle, of which only a section of its own wall remains. The narrow streets that still follow the circular shape of the ramparts today surrounded the castle at the time. Contrary to legend, the vaulted room that now houses the wash house was never the castle's guard room. It was dug out and built in 1878, well after the castle's destruction. You can find comprehensive information on the website of the association “Les Onze Tours,” which seeks to promote Taulignan's heritage.

The Silk Museum

In the 19th century, Taulignan was a prosperous town thanks to silk reeling, which employed more than 400 workers. Be sure to visit the Atelier-Musée de la Soie (Silk Workshop Museum), where you can discover the secrets of silk production, from the worm to the luxurious fabric we know today. Please note that the museum is closed in winter and opens on April 1.

Hiking and vineyards around the village

Dominated to the east by La Lance mountain, the village is bordered to the north by the woods of Taulignan, which offer walkers shaded trails that are so pleasant on sunny days. You won't leave Taulignan without tasting the nectar of the gods, a famous “Côtes du Rhône” wine, Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée, please! The most popular tourist activities are visits to vineyards and the pretty villages of the Drôme. 

The medieval Christmas market and other events in Taulignan

The medieval Christmas market is the village's flagship event. It takes place on the last weekend of November with 95 artisans. Street performances, musicians, and a fire show enliven this annual festival. The medieval atmosphere completely transforms the streets. Don't miss the Picodon, Wine, and Honey Festival on the first Sunday in June.

This event showcases local products from the Drôme region. The Onze Tours association organizes guided tours of the heritage sites. These cultural events allow you to discover the history of the ramparts, the Church of Saint-Vincent, and the silk mill.