Built on the site of a Roman villa, the Priory Saint Martial was founded by the monks of the Benedictine order, coming from Villemagne l’Argentiere in the 8th century.
All that remains of this period is the chapel with its bell tower, and the courtyard well.
In the 15th century a new chapel was built (still visible today), and the whole priory was extended in the 18th century.
The monks supported themselves by producing silk, and making rosaries from the seeds of the carob tree.
At the time of the French revolution, the priory was sold as national property and converted to agriculture.
In a very poor state when bought by the present owners, it has been lovingly restored to a superb site of calm and relaxation, set in the midst of a sea of vines.
Set in the vines, between Tourbes and Saint Martial, is the cross of Lissac which mentions, carved on its base, the visit of Louis 14th, on his journey from Toulouse to Cotignac .
“On 7th April 1660, King Louis passed this way”
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