Architectural Jewels of Toulouse (Self Guided), Toulouse

It doesn't take an architectural expert to appreciate the beauty of Toulouse's historic buildings. Walking the city's streets one can't help admiring the galore of ancient architecture which has earned Toulouse, since as early as the 16th century, the title of "the most beautiful city in France".

Once a powerful provincial capital, Toulouse utilized its prosperity, acquired from the woad trade, to make its mark in architecture. It was during that affluent period that the city became the seat of a large archbishopric, in which the church of Saint Sernin was considered one of the holiest places in the world.

The Renaissance architectural vocabulary made its appearance in Toulouse's private architecture and flourished spectacularly at the Hôtel d'Assézat – a true architectural jewel. The ornamental vocabulary of the first Renaissance elements (scrolls, medallions, putti) was eventually replaced with "fenestre à l'antique" (antique window), first tried at the Hôtel de Bagis.

The antique window formula was then repeated at the Hôtel de Bernuy with the use of tables furnished with Mannerist decorations to add more sophistication to the framing. A magnificent example of the French First Renaissance style, this mansion is a true symbol of the city's opulence. Its stone-clad courtyard, quite rare for its time and indicative of the owner's wealth, stands in stark contrast to the brick courtyards, typical of Toulouse during the Gothic period.

As a home of erudition and humanism, Toulouse also looked back on its Roman past, which found expression in the local architecture – the municipal palace of capitulum became Capitolium (Capitole de Toulouse), reflecting the desire to imitate Rome and its ancient references.

To explore these and other magnificent architectural landmarks of Toulouse in more detail and to see what makes the city so unique, take this self-guided walking tour!