Marcilhac-Sur-Célé

 As its name indicates, Marcilhac sur Célé is situated on the banks of the river Célé and is surrounded by steep limestone cliffs. The village is a good example of villages of the Lot department, characterized at the same time by the limestone plateaux and by the river valley. It is situated within the Parc Naturel Régional des Causses du Quercy. 

The village developed around a Benedictine abbey. It thrived until the Hundred Years’ War when in 1368 it was attacked and pillaged by mercenary soldiers. The abbey was ruined.

In 1402 the family Hébrard from Saint Sulpice revived business and the village found renewed prosperity.

During the religious wars the village suffered and was attacked by Protestant troops in 1569.

Rural development in the 19th century brought renewed activity.

• The Abbey : St Pierre de Marcilhac, founded in the 10th century was twice ruined but rebuilt on 3 or 4 occasions.
• The chapter house : the room where the monks met to “hold chapter” is one of the last vestiges of the time of the monastic community, today it houses a collection of beautiful carvings.
• The Maison du Roy : 15th century house whose name remains unexplained, it may have been used to lodge guests.
• The mansions in the village.
• The banks of the Célé river : the watermill
• Many outdoor activities are possible from the ideal base that Marcilhac offers.
• Swimming, hiking, canoeing.....
• There are a number of beautiful dry stone constructions in the vicinity.

• “Les Clefs de Marcilhac sur Célé” (guide book in French)
• Guided visits in season (in French)
• Tourist Office
• Marcilhac sur Célé is a halt on the GR651