Belves facts for kids

The coat of arms for Belvès

Belvès was once a commune (a type of town or village) located in the Dordogne Department in the southwest of France. On January 1, 2016, Belvès joined with other nearby villages to form a new, larger commune called Pays-de-Belvès. It is known for its beautiful old buildings and rich history.

What is Belvès Like?

Belvès is often called the "City of Seven Bell Towers" because of its many church spires that rise above the rooftops. It's a charming medieval town built on a rocky hill, offering amazing views of the surrounding countryside. The town has narrow, winding streets and ancient stone houses that make you feel like you've stepped back in time.

A Look at Belvès's History

Belvès has a long and interesting past, dating back many centuries.

Early Beginnings

People have lived in the area around Belvès for a very long time. Evidence shows that even in prehistoric times, people used the natural caves in the cliffs for shelter. Later, during the Middle Ages, Belvès grew into an important fortified town. Its strong position on a hill made it easy to defend.

Medieval Times and Beyond

During the Middle Ages, Belvès was a busy place. It had a strong castle and protective walls. The town played a role in many historical events, including the Hundred Years' War between France and England. Over the centuries, Belvès continued to develop, adding beautiful churches and other important buildings. Many of these old structures can still be seen today.

Exploring Belvès's Unique Features

Belvès has several special attractions that make it a popular place to visit.

The Troglodyte Dwellings

One of the most unique features of Belvès are its "troglodyte dwellings." These are homes and workshops carved directly into the soft rock cliffs beneath the town. People lived and worked in these underground spaces for hundreds of years. You can explore some of these fascinating caves and imagine what life was like long ago.

The Medieval Market Hall

In the center of Belvès, there is a historic market hall. This building, with its wooden beams and stone pillars, has been used for markets for centuries. Today, local markets are still held here, where you can find fresh produce and local crafts.

Belvès and the "Most Beautiful Villages" List

Belvès is officially recognized as one of "Les Plus Beaux Villages de France" (The Most Beautiful Villages of France). This special title is given to small towns that have outstanding historical and architectural heritage. It means Belvès is a truly special place to visit and explore.

How Belvès is Governed

Before 2016, Belvès was its own commune with its own local government, led by a mayor and a town council. These officials were responsible for managing local services like schools, roads, and public spaces. When Belvès merged into Pays-de-Belvès, it became part of a larger administrative area. Now, the new commune's mayor and council oversee the entire region, including the former town of Belvès. This helps to share resources and manage services more efficiently for all the villages in the new commune.

See also

In Spanish: Belvès para niños