Rodez (Aveyron)

Rodez (Aveyron) mini guide

Rodez is the capital of the department of Aveyron and is perched high above the confluence of the Aveyron and Auterne rivers. It is situated between the lush Segala hills and the contrasting arid limestone plateaux of the Grands Causses with their strange rock formations called 'chaos' which resemble ruined cities.

Ruthena, the original name for Rodez, was colonized by the Romans.  Following the fall of Rome, the town was divided into two camps: that of the bishops of Rodez, which was known as the Episcopal Cité, and that of the counts of Rouergue, which was known as the Bourg.  As a consequence of the hostility between the two camps, a double wall was built between them, with each camp having its own town centre.

The imposing 16th century Gothic cathedral of Notre-Dame (built between 1277 and 1535) stands in the Place de la Cité. This fabulous building is made of distinctive pink sandstone, and completely dominates the square. Its belfry reaches 285 feet high and the church is one of the Catholic Church’s more definite statements of absolute power. It was built to stand out and stamp out any incipient heresies following in the wake of Catharism.

In the Place du Bourg is the Romanesque church of Saint-Amans.  Its exterior is 18th century and its restored nave originated in the 12th century.

There are other interesting buildings one of which is the 14th century Maison de Guitard dite Tour des Anglais which belonged to rich bankers and features a large fortified tower. 

The city has a great choice of good eateries ranging from pizzerias to something a little more grand, so there should be a perfect dining experience for everyone

Heading out of town to Micropolis in Saint Leons you will find an interactive museum and theme-park dedicated to Jean-Henri Fabre and his love of insects.

Rodez is supplied with water by a Roman aqueduct. About 6 m. to the north of Rodez is the chasm of Tindoul de la Vayssiere, leading to a subterranean river issuing in the springs of the picturesque village of Salles-la-Source.

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Guide point	Details
Department:	South West France > Midi Pyrenees > Aveyron >
Location:	Located at the confluence of the Aveyron and Auterne rivers on the Plateau de Segala.
Public Transport:	Rodez has its own airport with flights from Stansted with budget airline Ryanair. It is also possible to fly to Toulouse, which has a greater choice of airlines and departure points. If driving from the UK the A75 autoroute runs close to Rodez.
Tourist information website:	http://www.grandrodez.com/fr/index.php
Tourist information contact email:	infos@ot-rodez.fr
Tourist information switch board number:	+33 (0)5 65 68 02 27
Tourist information address:	Rodez Office de tourisme, Pl.Foch, Rodez, 12005. France
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