Monpazier, a typical Perigord bastide (fortified village), was founded by Edward I of England in 1284.

Like most bastides (there are nearly 300 of them in the Southwest of France), it was built according to a strict pattern : the square (Place des Cornières) is surrounded by arcades and the streets follow a rectilinear plan.

The houses around the square were built from the Middle Ages to the 18th century. Monpazier was hit by most of the religious wars that took place from the Medieval times to the 16th century, but its architecture remained nearly untouched, and what you can see nowadays are well preserved historical monuments.

A typical market takes place every Thursday morning in the square, where you can find craft and regional products. You can go on a guided tour of the bastide every Tuesday and Friday afternoon in July and August (starting at the Tourist Information Office at 2 :30pm) ; a torch-lit visit also takes place every night at 9 :00pm.