Since not only a window to Europe but even a door to the whole world opened, thousands of agencies offer tours to any corner of the globe. But a characteristic feature of today is independent tourism. Indeed, booking apartments abroad is easy without leaving home. And then you can live for a while in the chosen city among the locals, sightseeing, studying local customs, and just relaxing.
In Montpellier, a small town in southern France (population about 250,000), tourists are attracted by a rich cultural program, warm climate, historical landmarks, and the medieval beauty of the city streets. The name of the city comes from its location: Monspessulanus (as the city was formerly called) translates as 'standing on a bare hill' (a hill with very little vegetation). The city is indeed located on hills, 248 km from Toulouse and 168 km from Marseille.
The streets of the old town are narrow and steep – this gives them an old-world charm, and it's simply pleasant to stroll along them on a warm, windless evening. Montpellier was founded by the Counts of Toulouse in the 10th century (at least, the first mentions of it date back to this time) and gradually developed as a trading center. In the 12th century, a medical faculty appeared here, then a university, which over time became a major medical center and one of the oldest universities in the world.
In the 19th century, Montpellier developed industrially and turned into a major industrial center. The population of the city increased sharply in the 1960s when Algeria gained independence from France. Thousands of Algerians came and settled in this welcoming place.
One of the most visited historical monuments in Montpellier is the Abbey of Valmagne, founded in the 12th century. Various cultural events are still held here today. In the 14th century, the abbey was restored, and today tourists can admire its exterior and interior decoration.
Another frequently visited site is the Basilica of Our Lady of the Tables, built in the first half of the 18th century. An elegant Baroque building rises on a large beautiful square. In the vicinity of the city there are other beautiful castles that have preserved their original appearance.
In Montpellier, tourists are awaited not only by historical sites. There is entertainment for every taste: various water attractions on Espiguette Beach, also equipped with sports facilities with equipment rental and many cozy summer cafes. Not only children but also adults will be interested in observing the inhabitants of the local zoo, Parc Zoologique Henri de Lunaret. The animals are brought from different continents and live among exotic vegetation in spacious enclosures that are as close as possible to wild conditions. There is also a large greenhouse with tropical plants and flowers.
Music lovers should also visit Montpellier. Every summer, an opera music festival takes place here. It is not only classical opera; the event includes jazz concerts, film screenings, and thematic discussions. Almost all meetings, concerts, and shows take place in the historical districts of the city and are free for everyone.
The city also offers an interesting nightlife, like many other cities in France. And not only France. Equally boundless warm charm of Italy, Spain, where you can comfortably stay in both inexpensive apartments and luxurious villas located on islands. However, booking villas in Italy and Spain should be done in advance. That way, the choice is larger, and the price may be significantly cheaper.
-