Bastide of Grenade: a new town of the Middle Ages

While you're in Haute-Garonne, make a stop in Grenade to discover the only bastide town built in the Hauts Tolosans region. This place, steeped in history, is an absolute must-see! Wandering through its narrow streets, you'll step back in time in this medieval town. You can admire its market hall, an exceptional example of the architecture of the period, as well as a testament to the importance of trade and economic life.

The fortified town of Grenade, born from an alliance

In the southwest, a bastide is a new town built on a regular geometric plan with streets laid out in a straight line (a small rope). It consists of square or rectangular blocks, which are what we would call blocks of houses today, divided into lots of similar size.

The bastide of Grenade was built in 1290 at the initiative of Eustache de Beaumarchais, Seneschal of the King (royal officer), and Pierre Alfarici, of the Cistercian Abbey of Grandselve, which owned the land . The Seneschal's objective was to consolidate royal power, while Alfarici aimed to increase revenue through various events (fairs, markets, etc.). Together, they signed a paréage agreement guaranteeing them equal rights.

The market hall of Grenade

This majestic market hall dates back to the 13^th century and is a listed historical monument. It is one of the oldest and largest medieval market halls in France (1800 m²)! Some of the timbers in the framework are original, having been cut in 1292. It occupies the central section of the Bastide and was designed to be the commercial and administrative center of the new town. Looking up, you can see, in the framework, the common rooms of the consuls, the first town hall of Grenade. As you might have guessed, the lower level hosted fairs and markets. In fact, the best way to immerse yourself in the authenticity of the place is to come on a Saturday to enjoy the traditional market. Take the time to admire the upper floors; you will see that they are no longer accessible, as the staircase that led to them has been removed, and the upper floors are no longer in use.

Outside, a belfry was added in the 17^th century; its function was defensive. Like in a watchtower, the guards watched over the surrounding area from this significantly elevated vantage point.

A stroll through Granada

Now that you are in the heart of the bastide, stroll through the narrow streets to appreciate the heritage of the bastide of Grenade.

The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption

The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption was commissioned by the Cistercian Abbey of Grandselve and built in the 14^th and 15^th centuries. Its style is typical of buildings from the southwest of France , constructed using Toulouse brick (a local type of brick). Brick construction became widespread during this period, as numerous fires highlighted the dangers of wooden buildings. Similarly , the octagonal bell tower may remind you of those in Toulouse, which served as inspiration. Admire the twin windows of this tower, which spans three stories.

Private mansions

During the 17^th and 18^th centuries, numerous private mansions were built, especially on Rue Gambetta. These elegant residences were commissioned by the city's prominent citizens. On this street, visit numbers 1, 19, 29, and 34 (this list is not exhaustive). Their owners included, respectively, a Capitoul of Toulouse (an elected member of the Capitoulat of Toulouse, the city council of the time!), the King's Prosecutor, a Marshal of the Empire, and a Farmer General (Treasurer General of France and First President of the Toulouse Finance Office). In fact, the latter's residence was so beautiful and well-located that it later housed the City Hall.

A small detail: The large brick gate you will see on Rue Gambetta was the entrance to Mr. Lasserre's house. It differed from all the others because it opened onto a courtyard, whereas usually the garden was at the rear.

The former Ursuline convent

The Ursuline convent dates back to 1626. It was once the most important religious building in Granada, encompassing a chapel, a church (Saint Ursula), a cemetery, and a garden with a dovecote. The 60 nuns who resided there educated young girls. They lived off the farms they owned. During the French Revolution, they were expelled. The building initially served as a military hospital, and was later divided among several owners.

The former Capuchin monastery

The Capuchin Tower is clearly visible, towering over the city's rooftops. This monastery was founded in 1603. The monks who lived there practiced austerity and poverty, which is why they relied primarily on donations from the people of Granada. Once again, the Revolution turned everything upside down! The monks left the premises. The town hall moved in, followed by a pickle cannery, and finally a school, which currently occupies the site.

This concludes our exploration of the fortified town of Grenade. If you enjoy history and beautiful buildings, head to the charming Château de Laréole, which is nearby!

Did you enjoy this report? Find more on the Toulouse Pyrenees Guide Blog.

We're on social media! Find us on the Toulouse Pyrenees Guide Facebook page and the Instagram account @guidetoulousepyrenees