Sainte-Foy-la-Grande is the oldest fortified town in Gironde created in 1255 by Alphonse de Poitiers. It is also one of the smallest municipalities in France. The presence of the Dordogne river allows it a prosperous situation thanks to the transport of wine on barges. Sainte-Foy is original with its orthogonal plan, divided by straight streets which intersect at right angles. The eccentric square is surrounded by covered areas (or arcades) which remain on 3 sides. La Bastide is also on the way to Santiago de Compostela with the Via de Vézelay. Finally, every Saturday takes place the market, one of the most beautiful in Gironde.
