Limoges

Limoges is a City of Art and History whose labyrinth of old lanes showcases different architectural styles, so keep your eyes peeled as you wander around. What sets the city apart is that it has two old towns.

First up, the medieval Cité district with its half-timbered houses, Souterrain de la Règle underground tunnels and Limoges Cathedral, famous for its Gothic style and stained-glass windows. The cathedral is also home to the world’s biggest Black Madonna made from enamel and gold. Known as the capital of fired art because of its expertise in fine craftsmanship (enamel, stained glass, leather, lace, tapestry etc.) . But porcelain is what brought it world fame. The city is home to visitor attractions such as the Musée National de la Porcelaine Adrien Dubouché, a museum that puts a vibrant spin on the history and function of ceramics and earthenware with several collections on display. Porcelain factories such as Bernardaud (leading French manufacturer and exporter of porcelain tableware) or Royal Limoges (the oldest working factory in the city) keep the legacy alive with exhibitions and studio tours.