Figeac & Musée Champollion: in the footsteps of the man who deciphered hieroglyphs
The Lot's other beautiful medieval town, returning via the Célé valley
Figeac is the Lot's other gorgeous medieval town: sandstone lanes, houses with soleilho (open roof attics), and above all, the birthplace of Jean-François Champollion, turned into a museum of world writings. A day trip that appeals to curious minds and families alike.
1. Musée Champollion – World Writings
Housed in Champollion's birthplace on Place Champollion, the museum tells 5,300 years of writing history, from Mexico to China via Egypt and the Near East. Recognize it by its facade covered in letters! Admission is €6.50 (€6 reduced rate), and workshops are offered for children. Check the museum's website for daily opening hours before setting off.
2. Place des Écritures and its giant Rosetta Stone
Right behind the museum, don't miss the charming Place des Écritures: its floor is an immense reproduction of the Rosetta Stone, the stele that enabled Champollion to crack the secret of hieroglyphs in 1822. Children love walking on it searching for symbols they recognize.
3. Stroll through the old town, then return via the Célé valley
Take time to wander through the alleyways around Place Carnot and Hôtel de la Monnaie. Figeac is also a major stop on the GR65: you'll likely meet pilgrims walking toward Cahors... and perhaps toward our rental! On the drive back, the Célé valley offers one of the Lot's finest drives, with cliffside villages.
Musée Champollion: entry €6.50 (reduced €6), children's workshops; check hours on the museum's website before departure.
Do the loop: head out along the Lot valley, return via the Célé valley.