MONTPELLIER
A hidden secret in the South of France.

Located in the southern region bordering the Mediterranean, known as the "white city", noted for his jovial symbiosis between academic environment and proud of its medieval Old Town which makes it one of the most charming destinations France.
Text and Photos: Sergi Reboredo

Travelling in the south of France is a symbol of pleasure, but doing it in the city of Montpellier is also an incentive. Mediterranean city where they exist, with a vibrant youthful atmosphere palpable in each of its corners, the result of which you can organize international events the likes of Hip Hop International Festival for the second consecutive year is celebrated in this city attracting 8000 spectators worldwide.
This is not the only cultural event that gives the city one of the most dynamic cultural destination in France, as throughout many festivals are celebrated as the Festival International Montpellier Danse, the Radio France et Montpellier Festival Languedoc-Roussillon, the Festival International des Sports Extremes, and I Internationales de la Guitare, among many others.
Montpellier is a young city for its history but also for its population as more than half its population is under 35, and 1 in 4 residents is a student, driven largely by the prestige of their universities.
Capital of the Languedoc-Roussillon, is a city of traditions and creative activity that is passionate about culture, dance, music, theater and architecture and other artistic genres.

OLD TOWN, the heart
Montpellier is a very young compared to other major cities in the region as Nîmes, Narbonne, Beziers and Carcassonne were created mostly in Roman times. Montpellier however does not have a Roman origin, but was founded in the eighth century. During the Middle Ages, the neighboring city of Magalona was the chief city of the area, but the frequent pirate attacks innermost favored a settlement. Montpellier became part of the Crown of Aragon when she married Peter II of Aragon and Marie de Montpellier in 1204, whose son, Jaime, was born in the city in 1208. On the death of James I, the Lordship of Montpellier became part of the Kingdom of Mallorca, until in 1349, James III of Majorca sold it with his other possessions to the French king Philip IV to raise money in their war against Pedro IV of Aragon , when it passed definitively to the French crown. Jewish doctors created the School of Medicine in the early thirteenth century. The University was established on October 26, 1289. The seat of the bishopric of Maguelone was transferred in 1536 to Montpellier.
The heart of Montpellier's Place de la Comedie, is located in the old part of town, from there we can see museums and elegant mansions. Highlighting the Promenade du Peyrou called, dating from the sixteenth century and is a fabulous set that compose a triumphal arch, a real statue (of Louis XIV) and a water tower that tops an aqueduct.
Another landmark is the climb to the Faculty of Medicine of the University. To move around Montpellier is best to use the extensive network of trams, but also offers bicycle service. Anyway, the city is very quiet, and although it has traffic problems like all great cities, is certainly not to the extent that if they have other urban centers.

TO SEE IN MONTPELLIER.
The Babote Tower is one of the last vestiges of the city wall height during the Middle Ages. On the medieval structure, the Royal Society of Sciences of Montpellier built an astronomical observatory between 1738 and 1745, which became a renowned astronomical center until the dissolution of the Royal Society of Sciences during the French Revolution. Since 1981, the tower is the headquarters of the Astronomical Society of Montpellier.
Les 3 Graces. Work of Etienne d'Antoine, founded in 1773, the statue-fountain of the 3 Graces (Aglaia, Euphrosyne and Thalia) located in the center of the Place de la Comedie is an emblem of Montpellier.
The University of Montpellier is one of the oldest in France and was founded in 1220 by Cardinal Conrad and confirmed by Pope Nicholas IV in a papal bull in 1289. Was abolished during the French Revolution but was reestablished in 1896.
The Faculté de Médecine de Montpellier, is the oldest in operation in the world (Salerno disappeared in the early nineteenth century). Montpellier was not yet two centuries of exitencia when, in 1180, his master, Guilhem viii, signed an edict surprising. Provided that any person, regardless of their origins religiópn or had the right to teach medicine in Montpellier. Thus was born the late thirteenth century, the oldest medical school in the Western world still in activity.
Cathedral of San Pedro de Montpellier. Pope Urban V, a former student in Montpellier in 1364 he built a monastery and church, to be processed into St. Peter's Cathedral in 1536. His Southern Gothic style, huge and imposing silhouette porch supported by two circular columns, create an effect of a medieval fortress. Found near the Arc de Triomphe, the Gate of Peyrou, designed in the Doric style with reliefs glorifying later King Louis XIV of France. In the late seventeenth century, the Administrator of the King decided to build archo de Triomphe, Paris imitation doors, placing it instead of one of the doors of the old wall.
The city also has a notable botanical garden, the Jardin des Plantes of Montpellier, a haven of peace which has the honor of being the first in France. It was founded in 1593 by Pierre Richer de Belleval at the request of Henry IV for the study of medicinal plants.
The aqueduct of San Clemente, built in XVII century with a length of 880m and two orders of arcades, which distributed water from the fountain of San Clemente, situated 14 km from the city to the city center and laundry. The engineer Henri de Launay Pilot Bridge was inspired to build this work Gard supply that consigned this precious commodity in a large tank located near the triumphal arch.
The most important art museum in town is the Musée Fabre. www.museefabre.fr Considered one of the most important art museums of France, owes its origin to the painter François-Xavier Fabre montpellierino. It was built in 1825 and opened in 1828. Showing ceramics from Greece and the rest of Europe. It also has a large collection of paintings ranging from the seventeenth to the nineteenth century, with a broad representation of the movement of luminophiles. Currently, the collections include works by painters such as Eugène Delacroix and Gustave Courbet. There are also sculpture, as the original creators of modern Languedoc as Aristide Maillol.

In Montpellier there are several architectural projects designed by the Catalan architect Ricardo Bofill, such as neighborhood called Antigone, a project built in 1979 to shape a piece of land purchased from the ministry of defense and became a district that had all the necessary equipment located outside the River Lez.

 

TRAVEL GUIDE MONTPELLIER.

HOW TO GO
A European metropolis on the Mediterranean, Montpellier is located in the center of the great capitals of southern Europe.
Its prime location places it at the crossroads of major communication routes.
• By plane
At Montpellier come direct flights from Paris (1h10 '), London (1h45') Frankfurt (1h30 ') and Madrid (1h35m). Air Nostrum www.airnostrum.es has a direct flight from Madrid on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays at 15:10 pm
Montpellier Méditerranée airport is just 8 minutes from downtown. The trip between downtown and the airport can be done by bus service. More information: www.montpellier.aeroport.fr
• By train
Station high-speed trains in the city center. "Saint Roch"
Direct arrival from Paris-Gare de Lyon or Charles de Gaulle (3h15 '), Lille (4h45'), Brussels (5h08 ') or Barcelona (4h32').
More information: www.sncf.com and www.renfe.com
• By car
Montpellier is accessible from the A9 - (Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, Spain and Italy) 5 outlets in Montpellier
The A75 motorway (Paris). More information: www.asf.fr

 

WHERE AND WHAT TO EAT
The Grès de Montpellier, Montpellier is the name consisting of the best in the hills of Languedoc. Its red wines are a deep ruby ??color because traditional strains of black grenache, "syrah", "Mourvèdre" red fruit aromas that evolve over time to cherry cherry, candied fruit, spices, to meet all papillae and taste powerful and fine at once, which persists well into the mouth.
The fine cuisine reigns in the city, and the chefs compete with wit and passion to provide great moments.
From Le Jardin des Sens www.jardindessens.com/fr/index.html, with two Michelin stars, passing by La Maison de la Lozère - Cellier www.celliermorel.com Morel, whose contemporary decor blends perfectly with the vaulted ceilings of this restaurant medieval to Tamarillos www.tamarillos.biz/Conocenos.htm and cooking fruits and flowers, or the angelic picture of Domaine de Soriech www.domaine-de-soriech.fr/, between the coast and Montpellier, not forgetting the many gourmet restaurants proposing the city.

WHERE TO STAY
The city of Montpellier has a beautiful, spacious center, built with the same architectural style reminiscent of Paris hausmaniana remodeling. Around the Place de la Comedie lie many hotels of different categories and style. There are those who occupy buildings of the nineteenth and always modernos.Como also find other hotels in the train station, not far from the Place de la Comedie. Furthest from the center are the large chain hotels, usually in the suburbs for what they do need to have a vehicle to go downtown. Montpellier is not an easy city to navigate, perhaps because of the similarity of their buildings and the lack of reference points. Parking will also provide parking.
Les 4 étoiles
Les 4 étoiles www.les4etoiles.com 3 Rue Delmas 34000 Montpellier, France Tel +33 (0) 4 67 02 47 69 Situated in a quiet cul Arceaux perpendicular to the bed and breakfast Les 4 étoiles (literally "4 stars", a nickname earned) offers its customers four beautiful rooms, spacious and comfortable, located on the top floor of a house in the 30's. The rooms are furnished with designer pieces
Pullman Montpellier Antigone
Pullman Montpellier Antigone www.pullmanhotels.com/es/hotel-1294-pullman-montpellier-antigone/index.shtml 1, rue des Pertuisanes Hérault Montpellie Tel (+33) 4/67997272 Located in the historic commercial district The Pullman Montpellier Antigone is located within walking distance of the TGV train station and 10 km from airport and beaches. Completmanete was renovated in July 2011.
Hotel du Parc Euromédecine
Hotel de France. (www.montpellier-hotel.fr/) 2 rue du Caducée 34090 Montpellier. Tel 04 67 52 43 33 This charming place has a very strategic location as it lies within walking distance of major shopping and numerous fine restaurants prepare dishes richest region, using raw materials of first quality.

WHY BUY
Shopping in Montpellier is an art, and there is something for everyone. Lovers of old towns and their particular environment may be lost in the maze of medieval streets where you will find antique shops, artists, big luxury brands, and more.
Those who prefer the more modern areas can take a tour of the latest high-tech business center Odysseum 2, on the outskirts of the city, an entertainment area dedicated to retailers and major brands.

MORE INFORMATION

www.atout-france.fr/
www.ot-montpellier.fr/es/
www.braunbattleoftheyear.com

001: A couple kiss near a wheel located at one end of the Place de la Comedie. Around the Place de la Comedie, the heart of the city with numerous terraces and cafes, you can see performances by musicians and artists, festivals also contribute to its lively cultural and artistic life. Other advantages of this city are its Mediterranean climate, its proximity and good communications with Spain and its proximity to the Pyrenees and the famous Camargue region, with its long sandy beaches and lakes with flamingos wild colonies, ideal for people who love nature and outdoor excursions.
002: One of the places located in the historic center of Montpellier. In these places usually have cafes with tables outside. One of the liveliest places in the city for its many bars and restaurants where you can find numerous places to eat well and to enjoy a fine drink. It is also one of the oldest squares because the square was previously called the small town ("place du petit peuple"). It owes its present name to the beautiful anatomical amphitheater built in 1757. On the model of Paris Saint Cosme.
003: Bars and restaurants in the Place de la Comedie. Is the nerve center of the city. Called "The Egg" because of its oval shape. It is a symbol of the dynamism that characterizes Montpellier today. In the square we find the Opera House, built in the nineteenth century model from the Opera Garnier in Paris, and the statue of the Three Graces. The Place de la Comedie has many café terraces and restaurants that make it a living space where they converge to students throughout the day and lugareños.La city has two operas: The House of Comedy, built in the mid eighteenth century , responding to the urgent need for the city to have a theater and opera house of Berlioz, built a century later.
004: A goal of the old town of Montpellier. At one time lived in these buildings illustrious personal. From the twelfth century, the reputation of Montpellier and especially his art of healing comes to the borders of Europe, attracting numerous characters: doctors, poets, philosophers, whose names marked the history and whose faces can still be admired in the locker room the current University of Medicine. We can quote Arnau de Vilanova, Nostradamus, François de Lapeyronie, François Rabelais and Ramon Llull Llull.Ramón, alchemist, physician, theologian and mystic Mallorca, very famous during the Middle Ages, chose Montpellier to study medicine. It was the city most visited throughout his life and the influence of that flourishing school is reflected in his medical works on problems of drug type. Today, Mount Pestelario pays tribute to this illustrious scholar dedicating a street "Rue Ramon Llull." Although the Spaniard has gone down in world history for its mystical literature, several contributions were made to medical science of Coeur época.Jacques appeared in Montpellier around 1432, wreck of a ship returning from Egypt. His arrival in a city so devastated by the plague and experiencing one of its darkest historical periods, is considered a soft balm. Treasurer of King Charles VII, owner of Montpellier, Jacques Coeur became their illustrious benefactor trade developed very favorably, not only in the Mediterranean, but also to Arab countries (sale of spices, sugar, cotton, silk). Today, this beautiful city will be the creation of a commercial district and store called La Grande Loge des Marchands. Ancient peoples such as Egypt, Greece, Rome had large educational institutions. However, the concept of the university was founded during the Middle Ages and can be considered as an evolutionary branch of the colleges and academies of higher learning. In Europe there are several very old as the universities of Alcala, Salamanca, Oxford, Cambridge, Paris, Bonn and others. His methods and his organization have evolved over the centuries. Students of our era have more privileges: they can study at universities abroad and live well, and linguistic and cultural exchanges very interesting experiences. Education not only plays a role in the academic world, but especially a human level, enriching the interior garden of the man giving and more tolerance and more capacity to understand other men.

005: Streets of Old Montpellier. The origin of the name Montpellier is a great mystery and the subject of several disputes among experts. There are several versions: Mons Pessulanus, Bald Mountain, Mont Puellarum, Mount of the maidens, Mont Petrarium, the mountain of stones, Mont Pistillarius, Mount of the species. The most likely Pestelario Monte, appeal found in a municipal act of the year 985. Appeared around the year 980, the city of Montpellier becomes a point of encounter and exchange between cultures Occitan, Christian, Jewish and Muslim, and university vocation is confirmed immediately. Thanks to the noble dynasty of the Monte Pestelario Guilhem, Montpellier ie, is born. In the eleventh century, is but a small provincial town with a castle and a church. In 1180 the Lord of Montpellier Guilhem VII whoever gives the right to practice and teach medicine. In the thirteenth century was built the city wall, is launched on a coin and three universities are built: one of medicine, one of law and art. The medical school of Montpellier officially becomes the oldest in the Western world. His teachings are based on ancient authors, which were then gradually discovered through translations from Arabic. However, there is still no physical place for teaching and teachers teach at home.
006: Shops of Old Montpellier. Magnificent well restored buildings, quiet cobblestone streets, a weight history, ancient palaces, charming shops selling products of "terroir" quality, art galleries and antique shops, many restaurants, including other boutiques.
007: Highlights of the city of Montpellier where stands the church of Santa Ana Letting ourselves be guided by its high bell tower of 69 meters that dominates the city, we reached the old church of St. Anne was built in the nineteenth century in gothic style is now converted into a contemporary art gallery called "Carré Saint-Anne." At that time, the space is occupied by an antique fair and between windows, columns, Gothic arches and the body background, you can find all kinds of antiquities.
008: Caco old with views to the bottom of the Faculty of Medicine. The Guilhem dynasty ends with the incorporation of Montpellier to the Crown of Aragon. Right in the fourteenth century, the sale of the kingdom of France Montpellier is a period of decline during the next two centuries with various religious conflicts (Holy War). However, a man named Jacques Coeur highlight during this period: it is an excellent businessman, to manage part of the royal treasury, is engaged in commerce in the Mediterranean, returning to Montpellier economic development. Today, you can still visit his palace. In the fifteenth century, Montpellier undergoes essential changes with the creation of four real chairs the University of Medicine granted by oppositions. The doctors simply see their role as educators and in fact harmed progressively disappears in the eighteenth century. The Renaissance is characterized by a profound renewal of teaching. Montpellier became a high-level intellectual center, sponsored by Bishop Guillaume Maguelone Pellicier, great humanist and friend of King Francis I.En the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, by Richelieu and Louis XIV, Montpellier became the capital of the Bas -Languedoc. The infrastructure of the city are new buildings: mansions, churches, hospitals, theaters.
009: Bars and restaurants of Old Montpellier. Do not leave without having Montpellier sitting in one of their tasty tables. The fine cuisine reigns in the city, and the chefs compete with wit and passion to provide great moments. From Le Jardin des Sens, with two Michelin stars, passing by La Maison de la Lozère - Cellier Morel, whose contemporary decor blends perfectly with the vaulted ceilings of this restaurant medieval Tamarillos and cuisine to fruit and flowers , or the angelic picture of Domaine de Soriech, between the coast and Montpellier, not forgetting the many gourmet restaurants proposing the city. You will find the restaurant can satisfy your taste buds and awaken your senses!

010: Aerial view of Old Montpellier. Hell for motorists, Montpellier is, however, a paradise for pedestrians walking calmly through the old town, the neighborhood more interesting to visit. You lose by medieval streets and discover beautiful private mansions, flirty lively squares, churches and interesting museums.
011: At the gates of Old Montpellier are mixed warm and cool colors. In some of these prestigious luthiers working portals. Montpellier, capital of luthiers Its cultural and musical Montpellier has made a city of great appeal to professionals trained luthiers, not only in Paris but also in Italy, England and Germany. In less than 30 years, more than a dozen luthiers have been installed in the heart of the city! Today, these 14 luthiers regularly participate in international competitions of great prestige, thus providing a unique reputation of Montpellier in France and abroad. Useful Information: Tourist Office organizes guided tours ("Montpellier music lover") to meet the luthiers of the city.
012: A girl dressed as a clown. During the month of May is carried out a series of performances that blend theater, music, dance, circus, street theater, visual arts and all disciplines of the performing arts that will delight the little ones and their parents.
013: Cafe in the historic center of Montpellier. A European metropolis on the Mediterranean Montpellier is in the center of the great capitals of southern Europe. Its prime location places it at the crossroads of major communication axes:
By airplane Montpellier direct flights arriving from Paris (1h10 '), London (1h45') or Frankfurt (1h30 '). Montpellier Méditerranée airport is just 8 minutes from downtown. The trip between downtown and the airport can be done by bus service.
More information: www.montpellier.aeroport.fr
By train
Station high-speed trains in the city center. Direct arrival from Paris-Gare de Lyon or Charles de Gaulle (3h15 '), Lille (4h45') and Brussels (5h08 '). More information: www.sncf.com
In conche
Montpellier is accessible from the A9 motorway (Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, Spain and Italy) and the A75 (Paris). More information: www.asf.fr

014: Old city of Montpellier. Guided tours with suspicion Montpellier keeps hidden treasures of incalculable value. To discover all the Tourist Office offers an assortment of tours, from the visit of the historical (Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, and every day in summer) to different themed tours that allow you to discover the city from new perspectives. Among these issues, the most unusual are the Faculty of Medicine, the mansions, the luthiers or wine tours.
015: Sale of postcards in an alley next to the Palace of Justice. Discounts Montpellier Visiting Montpellier on a budget is more than possible! The city is in itself an outdoor museum. Just look around to see statues and works of art in every corner of the city. The curious need only push the doors of the mansions to discover true architectural wonders. And with the beach and 11 km and public transport, the journey towards the sea is done in a jiffy. And if your weakness is the nature, rent a bike in Vélomagg, for only 1 €! As far as shows are concerned, that culture is accessible to all is not a mere phrase. All offer free shows and festivals for lovers of museums and shows, the Office of Tourism has created a City Card, which makes exploring the city at great precio.En reservation center online www.resamontpellier . com can compare the price of the accommodation and find the deal that best suits your expectations ... And your pocket!

016: Facade of the Prefecture of Montpellier. One of the main attractions of Montpellier. The Prefecture, Montpellier, dating back to the 19th century will give the pure pleasure of tourism with the architecture of arches and intricate design. The Prefecture, Montpellier also has the added advantage of excellent transport facilities, with accommodation facilities to ensure the comfort and ease of the tourists. The front of the Prefecture, Montpellier, as mentioned is a creation of the 19th century. Facts about Montpellier report that the structure is along Resistance Place des martyrs. In 1718, the Prefecture, Montpellier, who had previously occupied the site of the Ganges Hotel later became the Hotel de l'Municipality in 1718. However, as we will see along your trip to Montpellier the old entrance to the Ganges Hotel is visible from the left of the 19th century façade facing the beautiful Plaza Chabaneau. Generally, the Prefecture term means the governing bodies of great size that are larger than the cities and towns. This stands out as the title of a senior official in the French government. As a general representative government the duty of the prefect is to ensure the implementation of decisions being taken by the government. This includes the practice of law and the efficient functioning of all branches of public service in the department. Therefore the role of the prefect is essentially political and ensuring that the legal action and direct government within their department is taken regularly. Travel to Montpellier also take him to the elegant fountain that sits in the center of the square. It was sculpted by renowned artist Joseph Journet in 1775. He is credited with the renovation of the Cathedral of Saint Pierre that was given by a bishop of Montpellier. Admission to the Prefecture of Montpellier is absolutely free of cost therefore, tourists may visit the prefecture as many times as desired. One of the featured attractions in Montpellier, Prefecture, Montpellier continues to captivate tourists far and wide, with its universal appeal.
017: Building with a castle that presides over the Faculty of Medicine Western world's oldest. The power is still in use Mediciona Montpellier had not yet two centuries old when, in 1180, his master, William VIII signed a surprising decree by authorizing anyone regardless of religion or origin, to teach medicine in Montpellier. That was how, in the late eighteenth century, was born at the Medical University of the Western world's oldest still active.
018: Scenario of the Cité Internationale de la Danse. Maïwenn Rebours is responsible for press Montpellier Danse. The Agora, international city of dance is a listed building in a historic building that houses two independent, but work well for the development of dance: The National Choreographic Center of Montpellier Languedoc-Roussillon, directed by Mathilde Monnier. Montpellier Dance festival season, led by Jean-Paul Montanari. In the present site of the agora, international city of dance, was founded in 1357 in a convent was partially destroyed in 1562. Will succeed, since the Middle Ages, three religious communities before the order of St. Ursula did not come to found a new convent in 1641. The nuns will stay there until the French Revolution take responsibility for the education of girls. It was between 1654 and 1680 the building, as we know it today is built. It takes the form of a large square in the center with a cloister around which grow three main buildings: a chapel (now the Hall Béjart) cells and in aulas.En 1680, the convent is growing a garden (which now is the Agora Theatre). In the French Revolution, the building was declared a "national patrimony" and owned by the State. In 1804 the institution became a prison for "put to shame, detention and correctional convicted of seven departments:. Ardèche, Aude, Aveyron, Gard, Hérault, Lozère and the Pyrenees Orientales" An imperial decree required when the work of appropriation. The most notable of this company is building in 1810 in the Roundabout Theatre Castries Agora stone today. That same year, the building becomes a central house of detention of women. Many reports say that the poor conditions of detention, lack of hygiene and discipline "liberated". To remedy this, the nuns are called back into the building. They are responsible for school education of inmates, but only in general compulsory labor influence the disorder observado.En 1934, the government dismissed the Central House of Montpellier in 1935, became a military barracks building as Grossetti. Install the center of the German Gestapo interrogation resistance. After receiving the services of the Directorate of Public Works Engineering, the information of the antenna of the Air Force and military security, the building was acquired in 1986 by the City of Montpellier.C is in 1991 that the building was included in the inventory of historical monuments.
019: Facade of photographic art center Popular Pavilion (Pavillon Populaire). The creation in 1984 of the Municipal Gallery of Photography, culminating in the appearance of the Biennial "Montpellier Photo-Visions" in 1991, generated the need for a space for photography in the "People's Hall." This is a space that can accommodate major exhibitions, a large image archive and library. With these features are aimed at goals by contemporary research and private collections, especially international, the spread of photography in all its forms and techniques, finding new partners for the creation of projects and finally the establishment of Contacts between authors of national and international level in relation to the cultural politics of the town of Montpellier and the Languedoc-Roussillon region.
020: Guided tour of the Musée Fabre in Montpellier Agglomeration. Opened in 1828, the Fabre Museum is enriched with two other donations, brought Antoine Valedau Northern schools, Rubens, Steen, Ruisdael ... As Bourdon, Greuze, Girodet ... and then the patron Alfred Bruyas that brought the Corot , Millet, Courbet, Delacroix, David, Géricault, Ingres ... Restored and enlarged, is a twenty-first century museum has opened its doors in 2007. Equipped with new technology, provides a consistent path. The meeting rooms amenca fl painting and Dutch in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, Italian painting, the Renaissance and seventeenth-century French painting of the XVII and XVIII, XIX century modern art rooms with Cabanel, Courbet, Bazille, Jean Hugo, the twentieth century and contemporary Simon Hantai, Support-Surface movement (Support-Surface), François Morellet ...

021: A tourist looks at the prestigious art gallery that is exposed at the Musée Fabre in Montpellier Agglomeration. The French city of Montpellier, Languedoc administrative capital, noted for its long cultural and historical tradition. Among its museums, is known as Fabre, which houses an important collection of paintings, and which dates back to the nineteenth century, when it began as a modest municipal museum with thirty works to his credit. In 1825, a painter from the region, François-Xavier Fabre, Prix de Rome in 1787, donated a lot of ancient and modern paintings, prints and drawings, making the Museum an important reference art collection. Over time, the Fabre Museum has been enriched with the largest number of works, and today is in transition and study, because it has a heritage of 1,800 paintings, 300 sculptures, 1,200 art objects and more than 4,000 drawings , all belonging to a period from the Renaissance to the actual.Hasta the 5th of June, and thanks to the BBVA organization, you can enjoy in Madrid (Palacio Marqués de Salamanca, Paseo de Recoletos, 10) of a selection of works from the museum, under the supervision of the director, Michel Hilaire, and Professor John J. Moon. Also, from June 15 to July 24, the exhibition will be open in the Exhibition Hall of the BBVA (Church St. Nicholas) in Bilbao.
022: One of the sculptures on display inside one of the rooms of the Musée Fabre in Montpellier Agglomeration. This museum was created in 1825 through the generosity of Montpellier painter François-Xavier Fabre (1766-1837), who met him several collections. Its funds, which were subsequently increased by large donations from local artists as Bazille and Soulages, consist of more than 800 original works including paintings and sculptures by European artistic creativity (Rubens, Zurbaran, Veronese, Poussin, Géricault ...). After a complete renovation, finished in 2007, the works are presented chronologically from the Renaissance to our days.
023: A visitor observes one of the fabulous pictures that are presented at the Musée Fabre in Montpellier Agglomeration. Great Flemish and Dutch masters of the seventeenth century, French and Italian, as Allori, Véronèse, Ribera, Dominicain, Zurbaran, Poussin, Bourdon, Ranc, Coypel ... without forgetting the modern and contemporary collections from Delacroix to Courbet Bazille ... in total are approximately 800 major works which are offered to the delight of all. A quality that puts the Musée Fabre in Montpellier Agglomeration among the first collections of the Fine Arts in France and Europe
The Fabre Museum
39 boulevard Bonne Nouvelle
34000 MONTPELLIER
Tel: +33 (0) 4 67 14 83 00
fax: +33 (0) 4 67 14 83 14
024: Inside one of the rooms of the Musée Fabre in Montpellier Agglomeration. Between history and modernity, the Musée Fabre in Montpellier Agglomeration takes visitors on a journey into the world of the arts through the centuries. After being closed for 4 years for renovation work carried out by the Agglomeration of Montpellier, the museum offers, from now on, a natural circulation between the College of the Jesuits of the seventeenth century, the museum installed in Fabre, 1828 Hotel Massillian and fittings of the nineteenth century, including the Gallery of Columns built in 1875-1878. Building a new wing has also allowed the creation of an opening on contemporary art. Especially for the exceptional donation of Pierre Soulages: 20 works and a loan of 12 other paintings.
025: Stairway inside the Musée Fabre in Montpellier Agglomeration. The French city of Montpellier has a completely full of spectacular palaces of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, with beautiful gardens. One of these buildings houses the Musée Fabre, which was created in 1798 as a municipal museum. The name holds today it received in 1826, when he returned to his hometown of the painter JF Fabre. This artist, pupil of David, had been exiled in Rome during the Revolution and the restoration of the monarchy returned result. That same year 1826 he donated his wonderful collection of paintings, which greatly expanded the original museum funds. Further donations, such as Alfred Bruyas, enriched the museum to what today represents. The oldest paintings in the museum belong to Dutch and Flemish artists of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries as Teniers, Metsys, van Ostade, Jan Steen, and so on. There are also excellent examples of other countries such as Veronese and Zurbaran. The works of French painters were painted by Alfred Bruyas friends as Delacroix, Courbet and Corot. In modern times we have works by Bazille, who died very young, and Sisley.

026: View from inside one of the windows of the Musée Fabre in Montpellier Agglomeration, considered one of the Fine Arts Museums of Europe's most prestigious. The Museum was founded by François-Xavier Fabre, Montpellier painter, in 1825, was opened the public in 1828. Actually, from 2002 to 2007, the museum is undergoing a major refurbishment involving a cost of 61.2 million euros. One of the highlights of Montpellier and close to the main city square, the Place de la Comédie in the city center. An annex to the museum, named the "Pavillon du musée Fabre" ("Pavilion of the Fabre Museum") is open in a pavilion at the Esplanade.
027: Restaurant L'Insensé 39, boulevard Bonne Nouvelle 34000 Montpellier. One of the hottest restaurants in town. To eat: La Diligence, 2 Place Pétrarque (tram 1: Stop Comédie). Provencal cuisine served with great care and exquisite dishes like the 'feuille de foie Mil et agneau' or Napoleon of foie gras and lamb, Mediterranean and others such as gazpacho, or Irish influences such as whiskey cellar. We Grillardin, Neuve Chapelle 3 Place (tram 1: Stop Louis Blanc). A romantic setting of the ancient city. They offer elaborate recipes from Provence, where stands the venison, salmon ravioli salad 'pied de cochon'. It is essential to make room for the "fondant au chocolat 'dessert. Cellier Morel, 27 Rue de l'Aiguillerie (tram 1: Stop Comédie). With an impressive vaulted ceiling, this restaurant is on the ground floor of a hotel built in XIV century Gothic style. An expensive example of creative French cuisine and impeccable service, whose controls are chefs Eric Cellier and Pierre Morel. Les Bains de Montpellier, 6 Rue Richelieu (tram 1: Stop Comédie). Located in a former bathhouse in 1770 and after more than 40 years left, was reinstated as trendy restaurant by Guy Falco in 1998. They offer Mediterranean cuisine based on fish market, which varies every day. Great decor and good intentions, which are depleted with little care and preparation of dishes. Divine et Sens, 2 impasse Perier (tram 1: Stop Comédie). The old 'Menestrel' has become a new location where the stone continues to be the protagonist in the decoration. Two rooms, two floors and two rooms: a romantic and a boisterous, to please all kinds of people. Charter fair, although high prices. Morceau de Lune, 14 Rue du Saint-Gely Stack (tram 1 and 2: Stop Corum). Another place to sample traditional Provencal cuisine, with dishes original and well made, based on fresh ingredients. They offer good wine list, although the prices are too high for the quality of the dishes. Le Vieux Four, 59 Rue de l'Aiguillerie (tram 1: Stop Louis Blanc). A great restaurant for lovers of good grilled meats. Young and lots of fun, in a place that is not easy to find. Prices in the usual line of Montpellier, but with menus.
028: Playground next to the Esplanade Charles de Gaulle. Camp montpellierano March has nothing to do with Paris. To start is much smaller, and to follow is much more welcoming. When I spoke of the Jardin des Plantes I marveled at their leisure possibilities, but today it's clear that local parents prefer to bring the beasts to the Champ de Mars. This park is full of contradictions that make it both attractive and negligible, and one of them is their great lawns full of signs prohibiting walking on it. Clearly, everyone ignores, and even the town hall entertainers are dedicated to riding gymkhanas on him, but always left wondering if the police come to arrest you for thug (apparently taken it very seriously turf). Another is the swings and other furniture for infant use (and botellonil), giving the impression of being real death traps, which moreover equates to real swings of my childhood. What interest has a playground if you risk not break your necks in it? In addition there are many young children, probably from the nearby university residence. Provide point-Kurdish shot and touch-veranito miniskirt should be all fun space to be complete. Indeed, the very geeks will love the name of the university residence: the Corum. In conclusion, commenting that in the Champ du Mars is a giant outdoor petancódromo, with capacity for a dozen games simultaneously. It's a tremendously popular entertainment in these parts, so that even punkarras of towering peaks lie down a little game from time to time, showing that the tradition and anarkhy are perfectly compatible.
029: Store wigs in the street market held on the Esplanade Charles de Gaulle. The city has a beautiful historic center with narrow picturesque streets, elegant private mansions of the sixteenth century, numerous cafes and a rich cultural life. With its countless historical treasures, the city is officially recognized as a "Ville d'Art". Another feature of cultural life are street musicians and artists in addition to the diverse and renowned festivals are held there. The warm and Mediterranean life is reflected in the few kilometers from Montpellier cotidiana.A there are extensive sandy beaches and lagoons with large colonies of pink flamingos in the wild. Thanks to its privileged location between Provence, Camargue, the Cevennes mountains and the Pyrenees, Montpellier offers great possibilities for excursions. The interior is fascinating and unspoilt nature with numerous canyons, streams and towns ranked among the most beautiful in France. It is also producing region of the world's largest wine with excellent wines to discover and taste. The climate is excellent with over 300 sunny days per year that let you enjoy the outdoors for most of the year.
030: Rôtisserie Lyonnaise. One of the stores where you can enjoy a meal prepared with local recipes. Serge and Dominique bought the store in 1981, having been apprentices since 1966 after arriving from Marseille. Only the establishment of a patch that only takeaway. Despite its name, the store is open to all kinds of dishes: paella, tajine, vegetable lasagna or meat, quail with raisins, coleslaw.

031: Antique shop in the old town of Montpellier. Antiquité Brocante.
For purchases:
* Business Hours:

Most shops in Montpellier is open Monday to Saturday and closed on Sundays.
The shops generally close at midday, and then are generally open until 19.00 pm
Chain stores and supermarkets usually stay open all day.

* Where to shop:
Buying in Montpellier is divided into three main areas:
1. Small shops lining the cobbled streets of Montpellier. If you're looking for designer clothes, diamond earrings or new shoes elegant, then it is definitely the place to visit.
2. Place de la Comedie
Rue and Rue La Loge Massene are lined with shops.
3. Hypermarkets in Montpellier
There are several areas of 'Out of town' shopping areas of Montpellier. The easiest to find, near the airport.

 

* Shopping:

Polygone shopping center
Three floors, 120 shops and 2,000 parking spaces, air conditioning and easy orientation.
Address: 1, Rue des Pertuisanes
Tel: (+33) 046 79 94 160
Hours:
Monday to Friday from 10.00 to 20.00
Saturday: from 09.30 to 20.00 h
Website: www.polygone.com

Centre Commercial Régional Odysseum
Address: 2, Place de Lisboa
Website: www.centre-commercial-odysseum.com

* Supermarkets and Hypermarkets:

Carrefour
Website: www.carrefour.fr
Found in:
- Address: 6 place Laissac
Tel: (+33) 046 79 26 046

- Address: 1454 Avenue de la Justice de Castelnau
Tel: (+33) 046 70 24 800

- Address: 1742 avenue de Toulouse La Croix d'Argent
Tel: (+33) 046 71 51 305

* Markets:
Montpellier has several markets, including:

Flea market
Sell ??a select variety of objects.
Address: Espace Mosson in Paillade
Hours: Every Sunday morning

Les Halles Castellane
The best in the city market. There are stalls selling bread, cheeses, meats, fruits and vegetables.
Address: Rue de La Loge
Hours:
From Tuesday to Thursday: 13.00 and 07.00a 16.00 to 19.00
Friday and Saturday from 07.00 to 19.00
Halles Laissac
Local market with a wide range of foods and beverages.
Address: Rue Anatole France
Castellane Market
The largest market.
Address: rue de la Loge Old Quarter
Farmers' Market
More than 40 vendors of agricultural products grown and processed in the area, including fresh produce, quality meats, specialty cheeses, artisan breads, baked goods, local foods, herbs, plants, flowers, handicrafts, honey and syrup maple.
Address: State St. in downtown Montpellier
Tel: (+33) 802 22 32 958
E-mail: manager@montpelierfarmersmarket.com
Hours: May to October: every Saturday from 09.00 to 13.00
Website: www.montpelierfarmersmarket.com

* Fashion and Accessories:

Boutique Coqueline
Sell ??clothing, handbags, accessories and jewelery from a selection of top designers, including Dior and Jean-Paul Gaultier.
Address: 8 rue de la Croix-d'Or
Tel: (+33) 046 76 05 354
Adidas
Website: www.adidas.com
Its products are available at:
- Peoples's Rag
Address: 18 Rue de l'Argenterie

- Courir
Address: 12 Grande Rue Jean Moulin
Tel: (+33) 046 70 21 564

- Shooz
Address: 11 Rue de La Loge
Tel: (+33) 046 76 09 317
Esprit
Address: Ave Marche de la Gare, Centre Commercial Le Polygone
Website: www.esprit.com

H & M
Address: C.Cial Odysseum, ZAC du Millénaire
Tel: (+33) 049 95 32 160
Website: www.hm.com

Lacoste
Address: 5 Place des Martyrs de la Resistance
Tel: (+33) 046 76 38 175
Website: www.lacoste.com

Handle
Website: www.mango.com
Found in:
- Address: 29-31, Grand Rue Jean Moulin
Tel: (+33) 046 76 07 222

- Address: Odysseum - Boulevard Télémaque
Montblanc
Address: 7, Rue Jacques Coeur
Tel: (+33) 046 76 66 273
Website: www.montblanc.com

Nike
Website: www.nike.com
Its products are available at:
- Espace Foot Montpellier
Address: 28 Bld du Jeu de Paume

- Five-0
Address: 2 Place Castellane
Tel: (+33) 046 76 60 816

- MHSC Store
Address: 2 Place de Lisboa

- Temps Course
Address: 8 Rue Republique
Tel: (+33) 046 75 85 287

S.T.Dupont
Website: www.st-dupont.com
Its products are available at:
- Maison du Stylo
Address: 1 bis Rue de Verdun
Tel: (+33) 046 75 83 534
Zara
Website: www.zara.com
Found in:
- Address: Rue des Pertuisanes
Tel: (+33) 046 71 59 910

- Address: Place de Lisboa
Tel: (+33) 046 79 98 442
Geox
Website: www.geox.com
Its products are available at:
- Address: Via 9, Rue des hygrometers Accessories
Tel: (+33) 046 75 94 358

- Address: Via Montpellier Odysseum CC
Tel: (+33) 046 71 76 694

- Lord Petit Triangle Sarl
Address: Via Galerie du Triangle
Tel: (+33) 046 79 22 375

- Botty
Address: 2603 Via Avenue des Moulins
Tel: (+33) 046 77 58 946

Bershka
Website: www.bershka.com
Found in:
- Odysseum Shopping Center
Address: 2 Place de Lisboa

Unequal
Website: www.desigual.com
Its products are available at:
- Address: Centre Commercial Odysseum
Tel: (+33) 096 53 83 426

- Diana
Address: Rue De L'Ancien Courrier 5
Tel: (+33) 046 78 63 671
Benetton
Address: C.Cial Polygone
Tel: (+33) 046 76 89 38
Website: www.benetton.de

Pull and Bear
Address: Odysseum Shopping Center
Website: www.pullbear.com

Lollipops
Address: 24 Rue de l'Ancien Courrier
Tel: (+33) 046 79 93 785
Website: www.lollipops.fr

Levi's
Address: Centre Commercial Odysseum
Tel: (+33) 049 96 46 579
Website: www.levi.com

Ikks
Website: www.ikks.com
Its products are available at:
- Address: S.C. Le Polygone
Tel: (+33) 046 76 43 828
Paia
Address: Zac des Commandeurs, Av Louis Lumiere

* Shoe:

Victoria Shoes
Website: www.calzadosvictoria.com
Found in:
- Address: 4 Rue Grand Rue Jean Moulin
Tel: (+33) 046 76 07 178

- Address: 8 Rue de Lýaiguillerie
Tel: (+33) 046 76 08 655

Camper
Website: www.camper.com
Its products are available at:
- Sa Escassut
Address: 25 Rue des hygrometers Accessories
Tel: (+33) 046 76 60 000

- Import Ital Sarl. Octavio
Address: 2, Rue des Soeurs Noires
Tel: (+33) 046 76 04 929

* Optics:
Alain Afflelou
Website: www.alainafflelou.fr
Found in:
- Address: S.C. Odysseum
Tel: (+33) 046 72 02 121

- Address: S.C. Triangle - allée J.-Milhau
Tel: (+33) 046 79 26 744

Jewelry and Watches *:

Longines
Website: www.longines.com
Its products are available at:
- Bjs - Minutes & Secondes
Address: 14, Rue Foch
Tel: (+33) 046 75 83 448

- Bousquet
Address: 24, Rue Loge
Tel: (+33) 046 76 07 413
Fax: (+33) 046 76 60 700
Cartier
Address: 2, passage Lonjon
Tel: (+33) 046 76 60 938
Fax: (+33) 046 76 60 983
Website: www.cartier.fr

Hamilton
Website: www.hamiltonwatch.com
Its products are available at:
- Minute et Seconde
Address: 14 Rue Foch
Tel: (+33) 046 75 83 448

Hublot
Website: www.hublot.com
Its products are available at:
- Frayssinet
Address: 7 Passage du Lonjon
Tel: (+33) 046 75 47 540
Fax: (+33) 046 78 64 136

Omega
Website: www.omegawatches.com
Its products are available at:
- Bousquet
Address: 14 Rue de La Loge
Tel: (+33) 046 76 07 413
Fax: (+33) 046 76 60 700

TechoMarine
Website: www.technomarine.com
Its products are available at:
Bousquet Daniele
Address: 24, Rue de La Loge
Tel: (+33) 046 76 61 524

Tissot
Website: www.tissot.ch
- Bousquet D Eurl
Address: 24 Rue de La Loge
Tel: (+33) 046 76 61 524

- Barriere Links
Address: Centre Commercial Odysseum
Tel: (+33) 046 71 76 255

- Goldy 127
Address: C. Cial Le Polygone
Tel: (+33) 046 72 23 955

* Crafts and Gifts:

Galerie Place des Arts
A small space that specializes in contemporary glassware. In addition to the permanent stock a selection of exhibitions for visitors.
Address: 8, rue de l'Argenterie
Tel: (+33) 046 76 60 508
Fax: (+33) 046 76 61 496
Hours:
Tuesday to Saturday from 10.00 to 12.00 h and 15.00 to 19.00
Website: www.place des arts.fr

* Libraries:

Le Bookshop
It offers the widest selection of books in English, including literature, thriller, fantasy, comics, children's books and travel guides.
Address: 8 Rue du Bras de Fer
Tel: (+33) 046 76 62 290
E-mail: contact@lebookshop.com
Hours:
Tuesday to Saturday from 10.00 to 19.00
Monday: from 13.00 h to 19.00 h
Website: www.lebookshop.com

Les Cinq Continents
A bookstore specializing in travel stock with excellent maps and travel literature as the Lonely Planet guides.
Address: 20 Rue Jacques Coeur
Tel: (+33) 046 76 64 670
Fax: (+33) 046 76 64 673
E-mail: contact@lescinqcontinents.com
Hours:
Tuesday to Saturday from 10.00 am to 19.00 pm
Monday: from 13.00 h to 19.00 h
Website: www.lescinqcontinents.com

* Perfume and Cosmetics:

Yves Rocher
Website: www.yves-rocher.com
Found in:
- Address: 18 Rue de La Loge
Tel: (+33) 046 76 04 039

- Address: Centre Commercial Polygone
Tel: (+33) 046 72 24 162
Sephora
Website: www.sephora.fr
Found in:
- Address: 314 S.C. Polygone
Tel: (+33) 049 91 36 767
Fax: (+33) 049 91 36 768

- Address: 2, place de Lisboa, S.C. Odysseum
Tel: (+33) 046 76 86 180
Fax: (+33) 046 76 86 181

* Food:

Aux Grands Vins de France
It has a wide selection of wines from all over France, but specializes in the region of Languedoc. The wine tasting is held every Saturday.
Address: 1-3 Rue de l'Argenterie
Tel: (+33) 046 76 07 548
Fax: (+33) 046 76 07 709
E-mail: agv@free.fr
Hours:
Tuesday to Saturday from 09.00 to 13.00 and 14.30 to 19.30
Monday: from 15.00 h
Website: www.auxgrandsvinsdefrance.com

Puig
You can choose from a variety of seasonal cheeses or a large selection of specialties.
Address: 23 Rue St Guilhem
Tel: (+33) 046 76 61 732
Hours:
Tuesday to Saturday from 08.00 to 13.00 16.00 to 19.00 h

Schoeller Pâtissier
For an abundant supply of Ecusson of Montpellier (a sweet filling of Grand Marnier).
Address: 121 avenue de Lodève
Tel: (+33) 046 77 57 155
Website: www.scholler.fr

032: bohemian atmosphere in the old town of Montpellier. Gays and lesbians: Le Café de la Mer, 5 Place Marché aux Fleurs (tram 1: Stop Louis Blanc). This is one of the best places for gay and lesbian community of Montpellier. It is a pleasant cafe with outdoor terrace, which becomes an ideal venue for a public university generally. He Heaven, 1 Rue Delpech (tram 1: Stop Louis Blanc). Located just around the corner from the front and very busy from 20:00, usually by gays and friends. Villa Rouge, Route de Palavas, Lattes (bus 32). Located south of Montpellier and although not strictly gay, has become the reference disco for the LGBT community. A large international team of dj's and a powerful set of lasers makes every weekend night at a party. Beaches: The 12 km between Montpellier Palavas-Les-Flots usually travels by bicycle for many urbanites. Palavas is a tourist center, a school for 'kite' included, consisting of a narrow strip of land between the sea and marshes Étang Perols, Etang de l'Etang du Prévost and Arnel, numerous nesting waterfowl. North on the same strip of land open the tourist beaches of Carnon and La Grande-Motte, of fine white sand. Located 10 km southwest of Montpellier, Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone offers lovers of tranquility 3,000 hectares of preserved nature.
033: Balconies of the oldest buildings in the town of Montpellier antiuo. Here also begins the great Christmas market that has nothing to envy to the markets of German cities, we even found the mulled wine or mulled wine, more typical of Central Europe of a Mediterranean city, nor can miss the crepes, waffles and all sorts of delicacies. To take a warm onion soup, the most delicious soup I've ever had to stick with a chocolate crepe black to cointreau ... ummmm.El Christmas market extends across the broad Esplanade Charles de Gaulle to the Opera Berlioz, the other City Opera, separated only 400 meters from the first demonstrating the strong taste for the spectacle of montpellerienses. In this ride, is the Fabre Museum, considered one of the most important museums of Fine Arts of France, with works by Rubens, Zurbaran or Delacroix among others. Its name honors the painter François-Xavier Fabre who was born in Montpellier in 1825. Go back again in the rue de la Loge and continue for another of the main avenues of the old town, the Rue Foch, leading to the Arc de Triomphe at the end of the seventeenth century was built by the Administrator in honor of King Louis XIV just at the site of one of the doors of the old wall.
034: Environment in the many cafes near the church of Sainte Anne. Anna Rue Ste. In this picturesque area between the conservatory of music and the church of Santa Ana, you can see some shops luthiers, craftsmen engaged in the construction and repair of instruments cuerda.Continuamos by the lively pedestrian streets now you are about to burst and down the rue de la Loge arrive at the Place de la Comedie, the vital center and meeting place of the inhabitants of the city. This large space is chaired by the Opera Comedy and surrounded by other buildings hearth. In the center of the square is a copy of the source of the Three Graces - Aglaia, Euphrosyne and Thalia - an emblem of Montpellier. The original statue, created by Antoine Etienne in 1970, is located in the lobby of the Opera Comedy.
035: One of the many cafes near the church of Sainte Anne. Anna Rue Ste. Of course the best way to see it and enjoy it is by foot and wide pedestrian zone makes it easy. We headed towards the center, known as l'Ecusson similar in form to a shield. In fact, his profile draws a sort of pentagon and its edges are boulevards that take the place of the old murallas.Dejándonos guided by its high bell tower of 69 meters that dominates the city, we reached the old church of Santa Ana was built in the nineteenth century in the Gothic style and is now converted into a contemporary art gallery called "Carré Saint-Anne." At that time, the space is occupied by an antique fair and between windows, columns, Gothic arches and the body background, you can find all kinds of antiquities.
036: Church of Sainte Anne. I recommend a small square just near the Arc de Triumph, is called Santa Ana and right there is a church of the same name. This is a very special city for those who love the Mediterranean but do not want to renounce the great pleasure of tranquility that inspires a European city. No doubt, Montpellier answers to these two great reasons and so has a wide range of art, culture, gastronomial, pristine beaches and small villages of great velleza. Starting with the environment Montpellier around you will find many people summer by the sea which is best to avoid the most densified (which are few) and focus on what veritablemente bonico com Aigues Mortes, which has a magnificent medieval fortress or Le Port du Roi, a small fishing village where you can dine next to the boats. I also recommend two of the most pristine beaches in the area known Le Grand Travel Travel et le Petit, the two meet all requirements, a vast area of ??sand, very low tide you can walk quite a long time to take cover and accessibility. As for the capital, Montpellier, highlights the neighborhood built by Ricardo Bofill, if you like something like this it is to everyone's taste, for me there is too much concrete. Entardo and in the center (after the jam if you go by car and it's summer) we find the true core of the city. You can visit many churches, each one greater than the above, together with a large well-preserved aqueduct and of course the standard of the city, the Comedie. This theater is a great ride Connecta with the old center and other green spaces that link himself with the periphery. It is important to stand on one of the many terraces in the center and breathe the air. Before concluding I must not forget the Faculty of Law, the oldest there and worth visiting. Also, before reaching the aqueduct is one of the most beautiful parks and big city.

037: Narrow alleys in the old town of Montpellier. Rue Sepulchre. Pubs and clubs: La Place de la Comedie is located in the old city center with numerous cafes in the summer are filled with terraces. Around expand small pubs, usually frequented by students. The biggest clubs are in the area of ??the river, and they were the cream of the night, of course, upon payment of entry. Circus, 3 Rue Collot (tram 1: Stop Comédie). Located just steps from the central Place Jean Jaurès, is one of the most famous gambling houses in the center of Montpellier. It is decorated circus midway between New York and typically lounge offering cocktails and appetizers, with international music and r'n'b rhythms. The Café Cuba, 1 Place de France (tram 1: Stop Odysseum). Fans of salsa and Latin rhythms found in this place its center of reference for the night. It is a restaurant and music bar located in the trendy Odysseum and is open daily from 9:00 to 2:00. Rockstore, 20 Rue Verdun (tram 1: Gare St-Roch). A place that lives up to its name and organizes the best nights Erasmus Montpellier. It consists of a concert hall, a nightclub and a coffee-rock. Decorated like the 60 and improved acoustics, where parade some of the best rock bands in France. Le Cafe Panama, 5 Rue de la République (tram 1: Gare St-Roch). A library consisting of two rooms, a 'kitsch' and one Latin, which brings together most of the students at the three universities. Good atmosphere until late at night, which also boast of being the only club with free entry of Montpellier. Cargo, 5 Rue du Grand Saint-Jean (tram 1: Gare St-Roch). Another music bar that adds to the fashion of the kittens to university, which many students of French language courses attract. Open Tuesday to Saturday from 20:00 to 2:00 and Friday and Saturday until 5:00, with free admission until 0:00. Latin parties organized on Tuesdays and at least a couple of times a month for Erasmus nights also. Le Fizz, 4 Rue Cauzit (tram 1: Stop Comédie). It's a nice little pub in the historic center, very popular with local students. Prick very commercial music and dance easily. Point Zero, 4 Quai du Verdanson (tram 1: Stop Louis Blanc). Environment 'underground' in a local two levels where every night from Tuesday to Saturday is a festival aimed at a different nationality. We are one of the capitals of France and Erasmus note ...
038: Low houses located along the Boulevard du L. Vialleton overlooking the Church of Saint Anne. Here vidilla having Montpellier enjoys day, with its gardens, its crowded plazas, terraces in the streets, etc.. But suddenly, become the worldwide 19.00hy prepares to close their businesses and the city fades slowly (because the lighting of the city certainly leaves much to be desired, which sometimes even afraid to go through the streets). Now, though, in the middle of Christmas (which begins here and in \ "El Corte Ingles, is, in November haha) the streets and trees are filled with thousands of little lights, giant Christmas balls hanging from the branches and Christmas decorations guard the shop windows. With respect to the architecture of the city is quite different from Spanish, dominated over the low houses or at most about 4 floors, the streets are quite wide and endless, you do not see these never the end, where the \ "great architect \" that designed them insisted on gigantic trees planted between the sidewalk and streetlights put between them, which you can imagine the visibility of pedestrians at night.
039: Boulevard du L. Vialleton overlooking the Church of Saint Anne in addition to the cross located on the Place Giral. To the north lies the Jardin des Plantes, at 163 Rue Broussonet-the oldest botanical garden in France, created in 1593 to investigate the medicinal uses of plants (tram 1: Stop Place Albert 1er, Tuesday to Sunday from June to September from 12:00 to 20:00, October to May from 12:00 to 18:00, free). Beside him stands the austere Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, the fifteenth century, whose enormous size survived the religious conflicts that ravaged the region in the sixteenth century (tram 1: Stop Place Albert 1er, from 9:00 to 12:00 and 14:30 to 19:00). Returning to the Rue Foch, and past the Arc de Triomphe, right to the neighborhood of the Ancien Courrier Mail or old. La Place Sainte-Anne gives access to the Conservatory of Music and several workshops luthiers, from whose windows can be seen artisans making violins and guitars. The Rue de l'Ancien Courrier is another elegant medieval palaces dotted artery, in which are installed low-end boutiques that provide access to the romantic Place Saint-Roch. It was during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries when wealthy merchants who settled in the huge mansions sober up outside, but with gorgeous courtyards. Excel the Hôtel St-Côme Grand Rue Jean Moulin, where students from the nearby College Medicine came to the first sessions of anatomy and whose offices are currently the Montpellier Chamber of Commerce. On the same street stands the Tour de Babote, a twelfth-century tower, which has withstood the successive transformations of the city. The Hôtel des Trésoriers of France-at 7 Rue de Jacques Coeur, is also one of the most notable of Montpellier, with a beautiful XV century architecture.
040: Gardens of the Plaza Royale du Peyrou. Grove on the outskirts of the Ecusson (the name given to the historical center because of its shape), the Promenade du Peyrou, explained that contains the statue of Louis XIV on horseback, is one of the favorite places of the people of Montpellier. The Arc de Triomphe and thechâteau d'eau (water tower), extend into the water and are models of the classics.
041: Water Tower Place Royale du Peyrou. After lunch at one of the terraces of the restaurants that are in one of the squares of the "rue de la Loge", we headed towards the "Rue Foch," with prominent nineteenth-century buildings and many " boutiques. " At the end of the Avenue Foch find the Arc de Triomphe, the Gate of Peyrou (1691), designed in the Doric style with reliefs glorifying later King Louis XIV of France. The Arc de Triomphe, the Avenue Foch joins the "park Peyrou", a large green space located in the heart of the historic center of Montpellier. Inside the park, in addition to the gardens, include the equestrian statue of Louis XIV, "le château d'eau" (water tower) and "Arceaux" (The aqueduct of San Clemente - XVII century, with a length of 880m and two orders of arcades, run by the Las Arceaux and used to carry water from the source of San Clemente, 14 km from the city). We left the park and look Peyrou left the "Boulevard Henri IV" will enable us to reach the "Rue de l'Ecole de Médecine", where the "Faculté de Médecine". The Faculty of Medicine is the oldest in operation in the world. In practice there since the twelfth century, though its institutional framework first won in 1220. Among other famous people were studied such as Nostradamus, François Rabelais, Arnau de Vilanova, or Ramon Llull.
042: Water Tower Place Royale du Peyrou. The Place Royale du Peyrou is a large expanse flanked by trees, at whose end stands the Arc de Triomphe in 1692 and the Château d'Eau, a water tower with hexagonal shape, ending in St-Clément Aqueduc-in Boulevard des Arceaux, whose 880 meters long and 22 high offer one of the best nighttime illuminations Montpellier. De la Place Royale comes the elitist Rue Foch, where lovers of big brands enjoy. Montpellier (Occitan Montpelhièr) is located 10 km from the Mediterranean coast, being the capital of the Languedoc-Roussillon and Hérault department. It is crossed by two rivers: the Lez east, and west Mosson, proceeding from the Latin name monspessulanus, the various meanings attributed as Bald Mountain, Mount Hill, Mount spices or stony hill. The town was founded in the eighth century as a dependent of the nearby nucleus Magalona, ??although frequent pirate attacks pushed the population to move inland. With the settlement of the counts of Toulouse in the tenth century, became an important commercial center, which made it the capital of the Lordship of Montpellier, first under the dynasty of the Guillermos, and subsequently incorporated into the Crown of Aragon after the wedding Peter II of Aragon and Marie de Montpellier in 1204. After the death of his successor, James I, the lordship passed to the Kingdom of Mallorca until 1349, when King James III sold the Occitania the French King Philip IV to raise money in their war against Pedro IV of Aragon, being since permanently incorporated into the kingdom of France. Montpellier was a stronghold of the Protestant Reformation, whose inhabitants, known as Huguenots, actively fought against the Catholic French crown. To break the reformist pretensions, in 1622 King Louis XIII would take after a siege of nearly two years. During the nineteenth century became an active industrial center, which emphasized the production of textiles, metallurgical and food, of which continues to be an efficient producer. The University of Montpellier is one of the oldest of the French republic, founded in 1220 by Cardinal Conrad and confirmed by a Papal Bull in 1289. The city currently has three universities, among which are the most popular among international students to study languages ??in France. Population: 257,092 inhabitants.

043: Saint Clement Aqueduct. The engineer Henri de Launay Pilot was inspired by the Pont du Gard, to build the aqueduct in 1754 San Clemente. This has allowed the arrival of water from the springs of the city of Saint-Clément. Montpellier in French and officially Montpelhièr in Occitan, is a city in southern France, capital of the Languedoc-Roussillon and Hérault department. It is crossed by two rivers: the Lez east, and west Mosson. According to data from 2009 had a population of 257,092 inhabitants, that if you included the metropolitan area totaled 516 360 inhabitants (2008) inhabitants. In 2007 was the eighth largest city in France for its intramural population, is one of the few among cities over 100,000 inhabitants, whose numbers have steadily increased over the last fifty years, during which its population has doubled. The city is an important industrial center, which include textiles, metal products, food, like wine, publishing and chemicals.
044: An inhabitant of Montpellier walk down the street with his parrot. Although Montpellier is a fairly large city (a quarter of a million people), so that comments on the most interesting things are in the historical district, which is essentially the hill overlooking the surrounding lands. And not only the buildings of high historical interest include beautifully preserved, all the buildings downtown are in fantastic shape regardless of age and usage. It's nice to stroll through the narrow streets of downtown, I definitely think that I will not use public transportation and walk everywhere. Of course, I must admit that today I have lost twice, I look like a tourist just landed. Montpellier is also an important university city (fifty thousand students, ie, the fifth of the population), and agrees that these dates are starting to get all Erasmus to whet the French preparatory courses. All this is coupled with the fact that all of my course we are strangers, of course, so my intention not to speak anything other than French is being constantly frustrated by the communication needs. Of course, the Spanish do not step one, or French or anything.
045: One of the sculptures that decorate the neighborhood of Antigone. Antigone is a newly built neighborhood on the east side of town. The project was undertaken by Bofill, and is therefore considered that the entire neighborhood is a monument that one can not lose. For my part, I disagree. Going from west to east, we left the Place de la Comédie and then entered Antigone, where we find two horrendous buildings: the Triangle and Polygon. These are two shopping centers designed with many claims, so in modernolo plan but are a real punishment to the eye and removed almost want to buy. As the only positive point I can say that would involve many shops near the center. We. Begins a little beyond an area full of houses and restaurants in the prevailing neoclassicism. And when I say that prevails is that it is somewhat exaggerated: not only the Greek-inspired architecture is also the statues and street names. It is a much more pleasant environment than the other part of the neighborhood, but the word "pretentious" no one leaves him while touring this part of town. I must admit that Antigone has very positive things. The first is space, is a neighborhood very open and bright, and sure is nice to live there. The second is the solution you have given to the banks of the river (the Lez marks the eastern boundary of Antigone), have managed to perfectly combine recreational use and proximity to the river with an excellent channel to reach flood when (the cold drop affects the region). In any case, Antigone did not convince me to stay for a drink and went back to the center, where I found a wonderful new location. La Brasserie de l'Aubrac stands above all for his ingenious method of calling the customer: the bands play on the street, at the door of the premises, and not inside. In fact I walked to another room when I heard a siren as a jazz trio led me inevitably run aground on the terrace. The square is very nice, the prices are adequate, and the group that played today was very good. I do not know exactly where, but again I find it sufficient to find the source of such sweet sounds.
046: One of the sculptures that decorate the park of La Promenade du Peyrou Royale. The city is home to many students, due to the presence of a large university. Try to get to visit the School of Medicine. This was established from the 12th century and is still in place! If you want some relaxation and some solitude away from the busy streets, then you can go to La Promenade du Peyrou Royale, this is a park that is located right next to the Arc de Triomphe in Montpellier.
047: Inside the Hotel Haguenot. This hotel is a folie, ie purchased a house in the eighteenth century by a wealthy family. At the time, the foils were in the field. The urban development has made have finished in the heart of the city. In the late seventeenth century, the prosperous elite began to build mansions Montpellier developed around the city. Established between the leaves of forest gardens, this magnificent property is known as "foils" after the French word "feuille" leaf. Château de Flaugergues, the most original folie Montpellier, with its main facade and two side pavilions overlooking a garden full of tiered vineyards.
048: Gardens inside the Hotel Haguenot. This hotel is a folie, ie purchased a house in the eighteenth century by a wealthy family. At the time, the foils were in the field. The urban development has made have finished in the heart of the city. In the eighteenth century, a period of great prosperity, Montpellier housed the main administrative bodies (States of Languedoc, Court of Auditors, the stock market ...). This circumstance allowed the nobility and the bourgeoisie built large town houses in Montpellier, and small manor houses in the neighborhood, "Follies", located in gardens with trees, which competed in refinement and architectural style. Plant houses were generally rectangular, with simple lines adorned with sculptures. The garden is extended from the house in overlapping terraces, adorned with statues and ponds. The most original was the château of Flaugergues, but also worth visiting the chateaux of Mogère and Mosson. His monumental fountains, aqueducts and gardens filled with cool summer mornings.
049: A young girl helps her parents in the purchase in the market on Saturday morning on the Boulevard Arceaux. Restaurants specialties are characterized by the variety of products found in Languedoc, evoking the fine French cuisine, splendid wines and delicious seafood that reflect the seasons. Being Languedoc region in the world's largest wine harvest, there are excellent wines to discover and prove. These restaurants are located in the historic city center, on the outskirts of Montpellier and along the coast. In Montpellier, you can try local produce, cheeses and wines in the morning market in Les Arceaux under the aqueduct. During the spring and summer there are a number of traditional events, cultural and artistic organized in Montpellier and other cities in the region. Throughout the year, there are shows, trade shows, parties, concerts and exhibitions. The summer festival season offers, such as Radio France Festival in Montpellier, Avignon festival, fairs (Spanish celebrations, such as bullfighting, etc ...) of Nîmes and Béziers and film shows outdoors. Montpellier has an excellent climate with summers that last until late October. While during the Christmas season are held many cultural events (fi markets traditional Provencal Christmas games, corals, Christmas exhibition of figures, etc ...). With 60,000 students of its 350,000 inhabitants, Montpellier is the most popular student city. It is home to one of the oldest medical schools in France, dating from the thirteenth century and the most vibrant nightlife in the Midi. With many music pubs to choose from, and about thirty clubs, here you can find music preferences in crowded places. There are also numerous cinemas, theaters, two operas and four concert halls in the city to promote other entertainment interests.
050: Market on Saturday morning on the Boulevard Arceaux. One place I liked was the "Marché des Arceaux" traveling market located outdoors, under the aqueduct. We visited on Saturday morning, I was impressed by the number of jobs with bio, I fell exhausted in front of the cheese and ate one of the best pies apricots (apricots) in my life.

051: Gardens and sources close to the Place Max Rouquette located next to the aqueduct. Max Rouquette place (formerly Square Poles) to Montpellier (Hérault) to its original name of the proximity of water, west of Park Peyrou. This place is situated in the extension of the promenade that dates Peyrou the eighteenth century. On May 6, 2006, the square was renamed Max Rouquette place in honor of Max Rouquette, who died in 2005. On the occasion of the inauguration, demonstrations tambourine instead. 2 and 3 July 2005, the European Champion Clubs Cup Champion tambourine ball runs to the Poles after an eclipse of two decades. The place is definitely the Mecca of the game ball from the tambourine in Montpellier during the late nineteenth and mid-1980 when the establishment of a car chase players. It is there that included the first international between France and Italy in the 14 August 1955.
052: A symbol on the ground tells us that the Camino de Santiago also passes through Montpellier. Via Tolosana is the Latin name of one of the four routes in France the Camino de Santiago, the southernmost. Stop by Toulouse (in Spanish and Occitan, Toulouse, hence its name), but its point of departure is meeting and Arles. Facing the country step by step and cross the Pyrenees by Somport. Spanish side of the road goes by the name of Aragon Road to the stage of Puente la Reina. Then it joins the road from Navarre, which is merely the continuation of the other three coming out of France. Hence the way to the city of Compostela is continued under the name of French Road. "There are four routes, leading to Santiago, gather into one in Puente la Reina. One goes through Saint-Gilles (du Gard), Montpellier, Toulouse and Somport. There is no "historical path" as such. There is nothing to testify in some cases the passage of pilgrims. Otherwise the presence of a holy body, often linked to a local pilgrimage, like Saint Lizier or Saint-Bertrand de Comminges, both in the Pyrenees Via Piemonte.
Few hospitals in Santiago, contrary to the Via Podiensis even less guilds which date from the great period of the pilgrimage, XI-XIII centuries. By contrast, some rare examples dating from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.
053: One of the various trams in Montpellier. Montpellier is a French town on the Mediterranean coast, 200 km. from the Spanish border and 700 km. Zaragoza. Its metropolitan area is 400,000 people, half in the municipality. It has a major university, attracting Spanish Erasmus, like Bordeaux or Toulouse. The city has an elegant and lively historic center around a small rise over the rest of the city, between Place de la Comedie and a small park, characteristic of three French cities sights and so scarce in Spain, I guess because the parks are not commercial or aparcables or especulables. Montpellier was an early riser when removing the tram, in 1949, and to no less than 46 years later, there was decided to rentrée. Line 1 was inaugurated in July 2002 between Mosson and Odisseum, with a distance of 15.2 km. served by 28 trams of type TGA Citadis 301, being so successful that it was necessary to acquire, almost immediately, 2 vehicles. Also given the modularity of these vehicles had to be lengthened from 30 to 40.5 meters. Involved the pedestrianization of the whole city center, making a very significant work even so high to cross the mall Antigone, in the heart of the city but with components of hypermarket, and let expedite the Comedie Square, central nucleus of the city and through which the line 1. Line 2 was inaugurated in December 2006 between Saint Jean de Vedas and Jacou, and a curious feature is that against the blue line 1, this line takes about vehicles so colorful painted flowers representing one of its Typical productions. Without departing from the center, maintains a transverse trace more than the first. In the year 2012, is scheduled to open on line 3 of 22.4 km. and will reach the beach area. The data provided in 2007 by the company operating spoken of 53.8 million passengers, without specifying which party is by tram, and a fleet of 175 buses, although they speak of a daily use of 130,000 people in the tram line 1 , which would be above 30 million passengers per year, which would not be surprised by the personal experience I had when visiting this city in September 2007.
054: Inside the Montpellier tram. A Streetcar of flowers, another of swallows, and a range of contemporary artwork signed by the renowned architects (Ricardo Bofill, Paul, Chemetov, Claude Vasconi ...). Montpellier is a destination of first class travel for specialized studies in urbanism and architecture.
055: Wines from Languedoc-Roussillon. The two vineyards are one of the oldest wine areas, together with Provence. The wines of Languedoc-Roussillon, long regarded as lower quality wines, known since the arrival of varietal wines (mostly marketed under the name Vin de Pays d'Oc) in 1980, a renewal of its popularity among consumers. Modern research has shown that virtually finished the oldest sparkling wine in the world is the Blanquette de Limoux, older even than Champagne. The diversity of this region, large homeland that houses about 40% of French vineyards, comes from both soils and climates as designations (34 in total) and strains. Thanks to the initiative of young winemakers, the wines gained greatly in quality, to offer more elegance and finesse. Languedoc wines are red or pink and come from grapes like Carignan noir, Cinsault, Mourvèdre, Cournoise (or Aubun), and rouge noir Grenaches, Oeillade, Syrah and Terret noir, as well as secondary strains supported but do not exceed the 15%.

056: Aux Grands Vins, the best store where you find all the delicious wines of the region. One of the highlights of the annual calendar of Montpellier is the Fête des Vignes, a festival devoted to wine which takes place between 26 and 28 November. The meeting takes place on the Place de la Comedie, a point of great importance in this city in southern France. Here is located the positions of more than forty wine producers in the region of Montpellier, where the third day open their vineyards and cellars to the public to taste their wines. On the other hand, drinking wine here is for a good cause, since the money is donated each year to a charity (last year, for example, was for a partnership against AIDS). Air France is a traditional company that operates connections to this city from our country for good prices. If booked for the dates of this festival, you get flights for 255 euros in total. For example, taking the way to the November 24, which would be 120 euros and 135 euros back for the 30th of that month. Of course, as this airline offers connections every day, you can choose other dates of flight for the same price. And it can always be found better prices with airlines. So, at this point in the search box Flights are flights to Montpellier from Madrid from 169.35 euros.
057: Aux Grands Vins owner, the best store where you find all the delicious wines of the region. Millesime Bio 2012 Montpellier was born in 1993 through the initiative of some wine growers in Languedoc-Roussillon (southern France) members AIVB-LR association. Its aim was and still is, to inform buyers of wine products and the features of the new vintage. Although the event has grown remarkably, still exudes the relaxed atmosphere of its origins. Bio vintage has become the world show and professional wine produced from organic farming. Held every year in late January (odd years in the Parc des Expositions de Montpellier and Perpignan in pairs) in a somewhat peculiar conception. Millesime Bio 2012 Montpellier classroom and professional world of wines resulting from organic farming, will be held again this year in the French city of Montpellier, within the next 23 to January 25, 2012, on site Parc des Expositions exhibition center Montpellier, showing the latest developments and trends.
058: At the entrance of Peyrou find the most representative of these constructions, the Arc de Triomphe. The inhabitants of Montpellier are particularly proud of his bow, as it has over 300 years old, or nearly double that of Paris, and his pride Occitan leads them to try to tease the capital whenever they have occasion. On the back of Peyrou found another Roman-style monument built at the same time even more impressive, Les Arceaux. This is a huge aqueduct made in the image of the Pont du Gard (which I will speak shortly) and was actually used to channel water to the city until 20 years ago. Currently it serves no practical function, but does very nice. The Promenade itself is not too remarkable: trees and flowers, plenty of room to do things, and an equestrian statue of the Sun King in plan Caesar. The good thing about the site is so much space that gives rise to many impromptu public activities, which has become the hub of local perroflautismo. There are always people practicing the bongos or juggling, activities you can participate without a problem. For me, today I spent a great time learning to dance Occitania regional dances in the light of the moon. In general it is very simple group dances and rhythms quite alive, ensuring that everyone is encouraged and have a good time, awkwardness or embarrassment is no excuse to stay on the sidelines. I tell myself, who like many of you already know I have two left feet.
059: A modern-style salon in the historic center of Montpellier. Founded in the eleventh century, Montpellier is a young city with respect to its neighboring Nîmes, Narbonne, Béziers and Carcassonne, created in Roman times. Born as an exchange of favors, and the gentleman built a castle Guilhem and a church, he would later call Montpellier. The city grew rapidly in the commercial and academic. In the fourteenth century, became the kingdom of Aragon and the kings of France. At the eighteenth century, the walls were replaced by spacious avenues and squares. Today, the Place de la Comedie, called l'oeuf (egg) is the central scene of the city, a giant pedestrian space where all the looks. At its center, Les Trois Graces (Las Tres Gracias) have their bodies upright, arms bent and provocative smiles. Crowned with a great source of Carrara marble floor. Before the figures were covered when they left the saints in procession. On one side of the square, L'Opéra-Comedie, the nineteenth century, inspired by the Parisian model. In his monumental stairs, took refuge punks and dogs, here are healthy thanks perhaps to the good offices of Saint-Roch, the saint was born in Montpellier in 1340, who cured the sick and the animals provided accompanied by his dog. From the square, to access modernity, must cross the Poligone mall, temple of consumption, a former Protestant cemetery. At the end of an escalator born Antigone, a symbol of progress, the new district, designed by the architect Ricardo Bofill. It is a neoclassical buildings set along a mile, which includes apartments, offices, buildings and public spaces. The man disappears behind all vertical and icy wind.
060: L'Esprit des Lieux, one of the stores where they find any kind of souvenir in Montpellier. In the same streets of stone with elegant mansions of the seventeenth century, sharing space with some modern fads: old clothes or Christian Lacroix, art galleries and salons, bakeries, bars with electronic music. The dark streets lead several times in wooded places, like Place Candolle, or in luxurious avenues such as Fosh. A few meters high in the city, the Peyrou is a small garden of Versailles, three acres, where Louis XIV asserted his royal power, placing in the center a statue with his face and triumphal arch. Behind the Sun King, a giant water source feeds the aqueduct that carries Saint Clement (14 km long), and Roman-inspired beauty.

061: The bikes are the best vehicle to get around the city of Montpellier. Bicycles: The mild climate and 150 km of bike paths that cross the city Montpellier makes a perfect destination for cycling, reaching a bike lane the nearby beaches of Palavas les Flots and Carnon in an hour. Vélomagg (04 67 22 87 87) is the system of public bicycle loan, with which are distributed 2,000 bicycles at 50 automatic stations which operate 24 hours a day. To use the service must be identified with an ID previously in a main station (central station in TaM bikes in the tourist office, Maison d'Agglomeration in the Centre, at the Maison d'Agglomeration Odysseum in the automatic berths to rail stations and offices TaM) and can purchase tickets 'Explorer' for 4 or 24 hours for 1 € and 2 € respectively, fertilizers 'Plage' to the nearby beaches or 'Explorer Family' to enjoy all the family. The tourist office offers the brochure "Montpellier à Vélo" with an updated map of Vélomagg stations and bike lanes. Bicycle Rental ADA, 58 bis Avenue Georges Clemenceau and Gare St Roch, Place Auguste Comte.
062: Some restaurants in the historic center of Montpellier. Montpellier is a small town in the Midi, Herault region 14 kilometers from the Mediterranean coast. It has about 200,000 inhabitants and is, above all, a fantastic city to live, has it all: it is dynamic, warm, full of life, with all the necessary services. Besides being really nice is full of places to discover, whether historical or modern, lots of greenery and a pleasant climate. It is a quiet town but also full of progress that give the crowd of students from all over the world who populate their schools and universities. If you go through the whole center will get a small street, Rue Foch, ending with the courthouse and the triumphal arch that leads to the Promenade du Peyrou, a nice park, but with too much cement for my taste, culminating with the "Château d'eau" and the Roman aqueduct that crosses part of the city. Another park where getting lost is worth the Jardin des Plantes, the oldest botanical park in France created by Henry IV in 1593, for the medical school of the city. Returning to Antigone, we find an ultra modern district with large buildings in a style that blends contemporary architecture with neoclassical full of wide open spaces. Particularly, I think a little cold, but if I were planting trees everywhere, so I guess quite glad the area, the neighborhood ends with a channel surrounded by restaurants, mostly very "industrial", though one with much charm as The gingette, and the building of the Regional Assembly. A bird's eye view this neighborhood, designed by Ricardo Bofill, has a key. Nearby there are small beach towns, some are typical villages you would find anywhere in Valencia (La Grande Motte, Carnon, etc.) and others have little surprises as Palavas, with a fairytale castle.
063: Stairs of some buildings of the medieval Jewish worship Montpellier. The bone of Barralerie in Montpellier, whose facades are completely remodeled in the eighteenth century, preserved in a set back Jewish worship mentioned by the great local historians. Prior to its classification in the category of historical monuments in 2004, made an assessment on the potential archaeological medieval preserved mainly in the hotel Auteract notary, acquired by the council. If Montpellier is presented in the tenth century as a fortified single primitive nucleus, was strong in the context of urban renewal in the early thirteenth century when the Jewish community settled. The neighborhood is chosen from the pool of two blocks separated by an alley primitive but following a large shaft that connected the stately palace to the city markets. They are distinguished on the lane line of the synagogue building, the mikveh and the house of charity. In efervesciencia of the early thirteenth century, the old plot consists of small units underwent numerous transformations to build larger spaces in the form of patrician houses. This applies to the synagogue, which has a façade of more than 10 m long. This situation led to certain restrictions and adaptations. The plant peculiar to the synagogue evokes the probable existence of two previous homes, and the disparity of the building which houses the synagogue and mikveh indicates that it is previously dividing two houses: this is confirmed by the orientation of the plot, the junction of the two facades, the unevenness of the floors and roofs, and the absence of direct communication between the two sites. However several common elements testify to the transformation into a community together: the alignment of the three doors of the synagogue, mikveh room floor and facing the alley in the basement excavation for the pool mikveh ritual and the lower hall in the basement of the synagogue with the ground at the same level, same height of the vault vaulting technique and the same for both spaces. The building which houses the mikveh is only kept to the first floor. The upper part was rebuilt in the sixteenth century, but in the basement is a room up to the dead whose function is still unknown, a narrow staircase leading to the locker room with niches and benches as well as the swimming pool carved more than 6 m below the street. The synagogue building has for its part a comprehensive and consistent medieval elevation, consisting of a large low room in the basement, two floors and attic. The lower room communicates directly with the synagogue by a staircase and an opening in the dome (Figure 3). Alley a pointed door opens to the space of a single stretch cultic perhaps holding a platform as suggested by two arcs preserved corners (Figure 4). This peculiar structure requires the integration of a distribution system, covering and lighting that suits a piece that rises from one stretch to the first floor, or about 8 m high, which is confirmed by the absence of holes for the decking and the existence of a large paired vain at ground level. The rise of the Jewish community to his first exile in 1306 resulting in topographic location of the synagogue as mandated by the rule in the upper part of the city near a water source, in this case the water table and in the presence of units of a religious nature to the mikveh, ritual bath of purification, the charitable nature of the alms house and school didactic nature. The study of this hotel that will shortly be carefully will allow us to further our understanding of medieval plot of the domestic architecture of Montpellier and especially the mode of settlement, the history and customs of the Jewish community thanks to the exceptional preservation of this set of medieval worship.
064: Place de la Comedie, which can be described as a true downtown. A large square, really great and nice all of it surrounded by the typical French nineteenth-century buildings at one end of it is the theater of comedy that gives its name to the square and at the other end, after spending a pleasant park is a modern theater with next-generation architecture. From this square you can go to a modern shopping and the Triangle, which links the first with the Polygon and ultimately the City Council and the district of Antigone. Attention: If there remains the same policy as when I was last in the Polygone after business hours you can park for a ridiculous price at that time an open time. We stopped at Antigone area to retrace the path and get into the alleys of the old town. All it pedestrian, where the streets and squares alternate with broad streets and spaces. It is best to kick and kick through the streets, to lose again and again until you are imbued with the spirit of this cosmopolitan city. There are many notable houses, hotels and apart from some significant buildings worth seeing churches, latent historical buildings from different periods but with a consistent appearance. There are plenty of small museums, some very interesting and organized visits to "hotels" historic. You can report all the tourist office located on the square of the play, next to the park. The entire resort has many restaurants of all types and price, some charming as he or Le vieux Fourne mex or coloniel still life, etc. There are also several places to have drinks until 1:30 or 2:00 in the morning which is when they start to close almost everything, near the train station there are also some interesting joint, especially for rock lovers. To continue the party until the sun rises, you have to move to a polygon at the entrance to the city where you'll find clubs and pubs, some with terraces in summer.

065: Some of the restaurants that huddle in the Place de la Comédie. One of the best places to eat in Montpellier was on the terrace of Sister's coffee. The menu is not overly expensive and the cuisine is good, the terrace just behind the church of "St. Roch Le" is very quiet and super cozy. Across the church, is the square where we had coffee St.Roch while our son burned calories in the playground. The Church can be visited, is open to the public and there are not many tourists. Watermarks timber interior are nicer than the exterior stone and has a beautiful pulpit. The city is clean, elegant and refined French architecture, typical of the medieval and modern times, as the old salts. Montpellier is a city, like many, is an old area of ??narrow streets and pedestrian and part new, with its malls and shops. The old town is surrounded by the blue line tram is the ideal way to move. The city is full of nooks with flowers, squares, fountains that make it very interesting the option to let you lose while strolling through the city and discover its corners. In the newer part, which begins in the center is the "Place de la Comédie", the nerve center, where there is usually seen at flea markets and events constantly. Its source, tram, carousel and theater of comedy. There who dares to say it's one of the largest pedestrian areas in Europe, full of cafes, terraces Here we will find the tourist office to get maps, guides, maps and buy tickets tram tram.
066: The Piazza and The Grey Hound PaPa are some of the restaurants that huddle in the Place de la Comédie. As in all France is not difficult to find a proper restaurant or even interesting enough for an acceptable price. As throughout France and much of the world where you have to be careful is in the drinks, then prices rise enough. If you want to drink any of the wines or beer, check their price on the chart and decide. In the same Place de la Comedie and the surrounding shopping streets are many restaurants, very nice and some charm. Be sure to try the specialty of the Camargue, the bull stew. Beware times, the peak time is between 12 and 1, 2 in the evening is, that very afternoon.
067: Building great theater made today in Montpellier National Opera at the Place de la Comédie. Dynamics Occitan. In the eighteenth century, the medieval city walls were replaced by avenues and squares. The nerve center of Montpellier is in the Place de la Comédie, the source of the Three Graces and the building of the Paris Opéra-Comedie. To get to the most modern Antigone district, must cross the Poligone, the shopping area. At the end of the Middle Ages, Montpellier was enclosed by fortifications and began to choke. Nobody cared but-almost like a command-growing pines from a tower, called La Tour des Pins. At that time, Dr. Nostradamus, received at the University of that city, healing with medicinal plants, aided by astrology. In one of his many predictions, have said that Montpellier disappear when the pines of the tower, and old, are falling. However, after the doctor died, and the pines, whose roots ruining the building were replaced by cypress trees. That's why, despite Nostradamus, Montpellier-flourishing capital of the Languedoc-Roussillon region, still stands in the south of France, three hours twenty of Paris in TGV. Cars are prohibited in the Ecusson, the medieval city center, one of the largest pedestrian areas in Europe. In the labyrinthine streets, urban ear is adapted to silence. And the promiscuity of these spaces medieval to contemporary habits, increasing embarrassment. A soprano rehearsing an opera by Verdi, the sound of a battery out of a basement protected fund someone sleeps with Chopin. Over time, the architectural transformations Ecusson lived medieval fabric incorporated without violence. An antique recycled, with buildings that seem to fall apart: Part of the charm. The entrance doors, one meter in height, are always open. The spiral stairs are narrow and are not illuminated. Rents here are the most expensive.
068: the Place de la Comedie: southeast of downtown, the old medieval square is one of the most beautiful in France. It owes its name to the theater's facade that sits there and in the center chair a source with the sculpture of the Three Graces. The city center is called "l'Ecusson" which means "shield" or "blazon", by the way he has, almost like a pentagon. You will recognize it easily because it is bordered by boulevards that follow the ancient walls. Demos for a walk downtown and see what are the sites of interest: the Tower of Babote: has long been an astronomical observatory, now allows access to the old town, near the former bourgeois neighborhoods. Tower of Pines: An old prison for women. The door of the salt: the end of the street from the university, represented the privileged access of salt traders, hence its name. the Arch of Triumph of the seventeenth century. You are on the highest point of the city, to 52m.
069: Sculpture of The Three Graces in the Place de la Comédie in Montpellier. In Montpellier is the seventh university in France (after Paris, Lyon or Lille), with about 60,000 students attending its 3 universities and colleges. Note that 17% of these students are foreign nationals, you guessed it, Montpellier is a favorite destination for Erasmus students and other scholarships, so the city has a youthful and very fresh and dynamic student. Since 2004 the historic center is restricted to pedestrians, so if I can give you good advice is this: Leave the car in one of the parking provided for the purpose on the outskirts of the city and move to transport. It will save you many jams, lack of free parking spaces and the consequences of the law that prohibits a car is parked in the same place more than 24 hours straight. Do not worry, the city has it all for you to scroll at your leisure: bus, a network of trams and trains very practical.
070: Two trams passing by the Place de la Comédie, the city center neurágico. The Place de la Comédie owes its noombre the great theater, now National City Opera, which was built in 1780. It is accessible by tram and a pedestrian zone begins around, with shops and restaurants. In 1756, fire destroyed the auditorium was in the Cours Victor Hugo, and built the new theater. The square is organized around the theater, but now also has a couple of restaurants and a luxury hotel. It is a popular spot to meet people before walking into the center. I do not recommend you go by car, parked a hard time in this area and public transport are much more convenient to reach.

071: Time of performance in the men's final of the Braun Battle of the Year 2011. CT Equipment Group (Poland). A year Hip Hop Life looks at the international events of our culture, and speak for 21 years of break is to have the BOTY (Battle Of The Year) as the main reference as competition and therefore did not we would have lost even in this 2010. We present a brief summary of some of the most remarkable performances we saw. Italy was represented by the second consecutive time by De Klan who gave the show more fun. Dressed as Mario and the backing of the game did a dance tribute to this universe where they learned to beat compenetrándolos get juice with some power moves but perhaps lacked routines that would have contributed something more spectacular to all, or they neglected the freezes, olvidaar we should not scoring. Still an original show that started quite a few laughs which never missed the final rescue of the princess. Turn came to the only Spanish-speaking participants, from Guatemala went into action the very young Chapin Crew with a show in which we could barely see PowerMoves, which was expected to not pass the final. However, this team has come to this international competition after only three years after winning dancing and all of Central America so it is possible that in some years we are witnessing a crew at a level that has nothing to envy to the best. Time will tell. He had wanted to see what made the new hosts: by France was facing the Smala who delighted us with a spectacular show which highlights undoubtedly b.boy Hourth on crutches and with only one leg, but this disability has not be prevented with the best. In a way this reminds b.boy asset Kev Lil posed for Phase-T as a child and his colleagues used their size to play on stage with him. Mortal Kombat, from Japan, wiped out his show, we saw excellent coordination, all kinds of PowerMoves and learned to play very well with the music. Highlight the stranglehold of the head spin b.boy Kaku. His exhibition was such that at the end of the Salah show him that he was impressed and did not know whether he had broken the record of all the BOTY finals maintaining that movement. Kaku played greet the respectable to receive a well-deserved ovation from the entire pavilion.
072: Confrontation of two against two in the "Battle of the Year" 2 vs 2 B Girl in the World Hip Hop Festival in Montpellier. The project is an extension and evolution of B-boying workshops offered at the old post office. Then, the program was limited to such facilities, without official venue where young people could practice once finalized the courses. There was always support from the administration of the Historic Center. But where to locate missing this growing movement. "It was in 2008 when we met Esther," says Mr. Fer, national rapper and one of the founders of the school, referring to the guardian angel that you hit the gas to Transcend. From the land of tulips, Van Gogh and Johann Cruyff, Esther came to Guatemala to volunteer. He attended a breakdancing class and saw with great anxiety the possible social change representing these activities. The class gathered about 60 students danced and shared. "There were many gangs and violence in the area, but she was hopeful that the guys invest their time dancing," says Mr. Fer. And through this initiative they decided to take this project, give it a home and fight to support them. It transcends born in 2009, with seven members who formed a partnership with legal consent, but it was until last year when it was in the sixth. The original idea was to create a place where young people could receive free or low cost classes. The staff was as accessible as hop scene in the community signed up to take many classes that began only with the B-boying. Back in Holland, Esther summoned a group of artists in order to finance the project and created Friends of Transcend, an association dedicated to financially supporting school students. Through its support gathered 500 euros (about Q5, 000) to give start to the school and the courses. Transcends opened doors to offer only the B-boy. However, later courses were implemented MC (rapping), graffiti and DJ, and when he saw that there was little participation of women, it also created the B-Girling same discipline as the B-boys that focused only female. And thanks to support municipal and create a partnership with the Ministry of Culture and Sports, the boys participated in school programs open and gave shows in schools and others. Gradually paved the way for young hip hop. The first instructors and teachers who were part of the teaching goes beyond the same partners were planted the seed. Then, in the kinds of graffiti GuateGraff joined them, probably the most important company of gender and urban visual art in the country, and national and Ekis Ekis rappers also joined the cause. Thanks to funding achieved with live performances, achieved to some extent transcends self-sufficiency. This funding their courses, even those who need raw material and instruments, as the case of aerosols and turntables.
073: Several photographers in the "Battle of the Year" 2 vs 2 B Girl in the World Hip Hop Festival in Montpellier. More than a hobby, a profession, "We are artists, this live and this we live," said Nisho, member of R-12, when asked where his career goes. Like any artist who hopes to live your passion, the same students work transcends not only to be getting better, but to someday become professional dancers or rappers to earn every day thanks to his talent and the art they produce. But in a country as artistically limited, how likely is this? "It's difficult, of course, always possible," said Mr. Fer the matter. Some of the artists who study or work in Transcends are hired for presentations at parties 15 years, colleges, schools, universities and anywhere you want your services. "Some B-boys do live for this," adds Mr. Fer, "teach in schools and here at Transcend. Shows as a way to make income and have survived. However, it is necessary to be too good or have a great race to do so. It is necessary to support this kind of art. " However, the B-boys live act and as DJs and rappers as musicians and have built a culture and spaces where they can excel. Here is the example of Chapin Crew DJ Crew Soundsystem Básico3 and Bacteria, but the graffiti is uphill race. It transcends members condemn the failure to have a place to practice these skills. However, GuateGraff supports art and legal graffiti, which although does not have municipal consent, is to paint houses and abandoned walls. But the ideal would be an exhibition where artists paint live art remains a few weeks and then paint it white and start again from scratch. Forms of support for being a self-sufficient project, transcends always looking for ways to support to survive, thanks to grants or contracts. Also, Mr. Fer Please support and dissemination to the media to follow the expansion of recognition and prestige of the school. The two major shows this year are the next transcends May 7, with a presentation of 6 by 6, a battle of B-boys that promotes unity among the groups. For the next edition of the Historic Center Festival has been the first event of B-Girling, a show consisting exclusively by women, and the qualifier is attached the same day. This time, instead of being an American battle will reach continental South America to join groups. During that month you close the International Year of Youth. Whether as part of the culture or counterculture Guatemala, hip-hop community has grown to the point of a movement organized. There is no limit to art in the same streets and overflowing talent in spurts. Transcends not only represents a colorful artistic breakthrough for the country, but a social relief offered by craft, passion and profession to young people who have found refuge and friendship in dance, music and visual art. "We keep growing," members of student trust. "We want to have the same growth and unity of each year and provide a good place where young people use their time on something productive," says Fer. "In the division is the reverse and we look forward." With baggy clothes, hats and bright pulsating rhythm is written the future of urban art in Guatemala. Transcend joins the rich tradition of hip hop and new poets in the movement.
074: Hip hop in the backstage preparation for Braun Battle of the Year. hip hop the biggest event on the planet. Since we saw on TV the first astronaut floating from one side to another aboard a spaceship, experience weightlessness has become a recurring fantasy for many. Fortunately, you no longer need to travel to the moon to enjoy this live show. This Saturday November 19, Montpellier hosts the final of the biggest event in the world B-boying: The Braun Battle of the Year, 20 crews will face a rate of hip hop for the title of world champions. During the last six months have held a total of 35 rounds around the world, the United States to Singapore, from Germany to Japan. Of the 350 crews and 3,000 initial b-boys, only 20 have managed to reach the final of the Braun BOTY 2011 to be held at the Park & ??Suite Montpellier Arena before an audience of over 10,000 people (Dufrasne Miles, winner of BEART contest (D) Whose it, among them) and Dj's from the likes of Mar, Lean Rock, MC Trix, Nasty, Maleek and Spax as BSO. You can follow the largest celebration of breakdance and hip hop the world streaming on Saturday by clicking here. Bands finalists for this year are: CT Group (Poland), Nine States B-Boyz (Japan), Dead Prezz (Greece), Kosher Flava (Israel), Vagabonds (France), TPEC Crew (Taiwan), Simple System (Kazakhstan ), Maximum Crew (Korea), Battle Born (USA), Guatemaya Crew (Guatemala), Reckless Bunch (Germany), B-Boys Amazon (Brazil), Ruff 'n' X (Switzerland), De Klan (Italy) and Hoochen Crew (Germany).
075: The Japanese winners of the B Girls Girls 2 Battles us 2. Le Braun Battle of the Year is one of the unavoidable moments that make Monpellier a larger stage in terms of culture. International championships final dance hip-hop, is as straight year is organized in Montpellier, after 10 years in Germany. It is during the 80's when this type of dance developed in the framework of the Festival International Montpellier Danse, which was created with the aim of converting cultural capital Montpellier. Throughout the year take place in Montpellier festivals, concerts, exhibitions and workshops: The Festival International Montpellier Danse, the Radio France et Montpellier Festival Languedoc-Roussillon, FISE - Festival International des Sports Extremes, Les Internationales de la Guitare ... Without forget all the daily events managed by competent cultural associations that have made Montpellier one of the most dynamic cultural destination in France.

076: The Fabre Museum in Montpellier is considered one of the Fine Arts Museums of Europe's most prestigious.
077: Halls Fabre Museum, considered one of the most important museums of Fine Arts of France, with works by Rubens, Zurbaran or Delacroix among others.
078: The aqueduct of San Clemente - XVII century, with a length of 880m and two orders of arcades, run by the Las Arceaux and used to carry water from the source of San Clemente, 14 km from the city
079: Cafes near the church of Sainte Anne. Anna Rue Ste. In this picturesque area between the conservatory of music and the church of Santa Ana, you can see some shops luthiers, craftsmen dedicated to building and repairing stringed instruments.
080: Terraces and restaurants near the church of Sainte Anne. Anna Rue Ste.
081: Lamps decorating the Place Royale du Peyrou. Montpellier.
082: Store Owner Aux Grands Vins, the best store where you find all the delicious wines of the region.
083: Bolletas Social Club, a sauvignon Montpellier area.
084: Courvoisier, one of the vinacotecas of Montpellier.
085: Market fresh and green: Arceaux.
086: A variety of cheeses to be found in Montpellier.
087: Two circus clowns promote action in Montpellier.
088: Delecto, one of the many restaurants located in Montpellier.
089: Portraits in Montpellier.
090: Barres and restaurants on the street of Rue Saint Guilhem. Montpellier
091: The district of Antigone, an ultramodern neighborhood, with large buildings in a style that blends contemporary architecture with neoclassical full of wide open spaces. It seems a little cold, but when I was planting trees everywhere, so I guess quite glad the area, the neighborhood ends with a channel surrounded by restaurants, most very "industrial", though one with much charm as the gingette, and with the building of the Regional Assembly. A bird's eye view this neighborhood, designed by Ricardo Bofill, has a key.
092: Water Tower Place Royale du Peyrou. The Place Royale du Peyrou is a large expanse flanked by trees, at whose end stands the Arc de Triomphe in 1692 and the Château d'Eau, a water tower with hexagonal shape, ending in St-Clément Aqueduc-in Boulevard des Arceaux, whose 880 meters long and 22 high offer one of the best nighttime illuminations Montpellier.
093: The Hotel is a Folie Haguenot ie purchased a house in the eighteenth century by a wealthy family.
094: Tram painted with flowers in Montpellier.
095: Sign of the Camino de Santiago, here called Arles road passes through Montpellier.
096: Typical French car. Citroen Dyane 6 in Montpellier.
097: At the back the building of the great theater made today in Montpellier National Opera at the Place de la Comédie.
098: Montpelier Pavilion which holds the Festival of Hip hop Le Braun Battle of the Year.
099: Le Braun Trainings Battle of the Year male., Hip-Hop Festival.
100: Environment night with restaurants on the Place de la Comédie.

Montpellier is a young city for its history but also for its population: 1 of 4 resident and student, half the population is under 35 years.
Capital of the Languedoc-Roussillon, Montpellier is a city of traditions and creative activity that is passionate about culture, dance, music, theater, architecture ...

 

 

Le Braun Battle of the Year
www.braunbattleoftheyear.com

Le Braun Battle of the Year is one of the unavoidable moments that make Monpellier a larger stage in terms of culture. International championships final dance hip-hop, is as straight year is organized in Montpellier, after 10 years in Germany.

It is during the 80's when this type of dance developed in the framework of the Festival International Montpellier Danse, which was created with the aim of converting cultural capital Montpellier.

Throughout the year take place in Montpellier festivals, concerts, exhibitions and workshops:
The Festival International Montpellier Danse, the Radio France et Montpellier Festival Languedoc-Roussillon, FISE - Festival International des Sports Extremes, Les Internationales de la Guitare ...

Not to mention all the daily events managed by competent cultural associations that have made Montpellier one of the most dynamic cultural destination in France.

Thursday

Sants Station 9h00 Departure for Figueras
11h06 Departure from Figueres to Montpellier

13h12 Arrival at the station of Montpellier St Roch and hosting by Edith Dupuis (mobile
(00 336 89 95 59 58), the tourist office at the railroad station on the ground between points 0 and Presse Accueil. Will be waiting with a sign bearing the logo

 

Transfer to the Hotel Antigone
Citadines Antigone
588, boulevard d'Antigone
34000 Montpellier
Tel: 00 334 99 52 37 50
www.citadines.com

 

Lunch

15h Meeting with other reporters in the lobby of the Montpellier Tourist Office, place de la Comédie.
Rapid presentation of the team that will accompany you during your stay.

15h30 Start of the guided tour of Old Montpellier with Corinne Turlan, guide (2h).

17h30 End of the visit and return to hotel. Free time.

19:30 Meeting in the hotel lobby with Edith DUPUIS.

20h Dinner at the Old Town

Le Coin Perdu
4, rue du Puits des Esquilles
34000 Montpellier
Tel +33 (0) 4 67 58 97 42

 

Friday

Care, breakfast is taken outside the hotel with the group

9 am Meet in hotel lobby with Edith DUPUIS. Departure to the restaurant Le Comptoir de l'Arc.

Comptoir de l'Arc
2, rue de l'Hôtel de Ville
Place de la Canourgue
Tel 04 67 60 30 79

9:30 am Breakfast with Thomas RAYMOND, président d'Attitude Association.

President of Attitude Association. This association is the organizer of BOTY France and one of the organizers of the international BOTY Braun. www.attitudeasso.com/ www.braunbattleoftheyear.com/

10.30 Meet at l'Agora de la Danse Cité Internationale with Maïwenn Rebours, press officer in Montpellier Danse.
www.montpellierdanse.com/

 

- Meeting with Jean-Paul Montanari, Director of Montpellier Danse: person inescapable cultural scene www.montpellierdanse.com/ Montpellier

 

- Meeting with Mr Saurel, Deputy Mayor delegated cultural presentation of the development of culture in Montpellier.

 

11.30 Guided tour of the Musée Fabre in Montpellier Agglomeration: considered one of the Museum of Fine Arts most prestigious in Europe.
http://museefabre.montpellier-agglo.com/
Meeting with the guide Ingrid Valette (duration 1h30).

Musée Fabre in Montpellier Agglomeration
39, boulevard Bonne Nouvelle
Tel 04 67 14 83 00
http://museefabre.montpellier-agglo.com/

13h End of the visit, meeting with Caroline BERLAND of the tourist office in the lobby of the museum.
Lunch at the restaurant:

L'Insensé
39, boulevard Bonne Nouvelle
34000 Montpellier
Tel +33 (0) 4 67 58 97 78

14.30 Free time

Opportunity to visit places of free access exhibition: Le Pavillon Populaire www.montpellier.fr/506-les-expos-du-pavillon-populaire.htm

Encuenro 19h30 in the lobby with Aline COUQUET.

Dinner at 20h:

The Ghastly
2 bis rue d'Obilion
Montpellier 34000, France

 

21h30 B * Girls, Girls 2 vs 2 Battles.
www.braunbattleoftheyear.com/fr/finale-2011/programme/we-bgirlz.html

We Rockstore
20, Rue de Verdun
34000 Montpellier
www.rockstore.fr/

Saturday

9:30 Meeting in the hotel lobby with Caroline BERLAND.
Departure to visit the old town market Arceaux. Walk and buy fresh produce for the picnic.

 

11 am Guided tour of the Hotel Haguenot, and picnic with products purchased in the morning.

The Hotel Haguenot is a "Folie", ie a house bought in the eighteenth century by a wealthy family. At the time, the foils were in the field. The urban development has made have resulted in the heart of the city.

The foils et sont an important element inescapable heritage of Montpellier.
www.hotelhaguenot.fr

14h Free afternoon.

16h/17h Meeting in the hotel lobby with Aline COUQUET.
Output for the big Final BOTY International

18h30 Start of the show.

The first rays of sun caressing buildings downtown of one step tiñéndolos mixture of ocher and pink that further accentuates and adorns the facades of its ancient splendor. I decide to have breakfast in one of the restaurants with terrace of the Place de la Comedie. At first glance it's easy to envision the melting pot that makes up the population, due in part to the exodus of Algerians in search of a better life, but they were not the only ones who sought shelter in this city. Not to forget, for example, that this city hosted between 1939 and 1975 to 250,000 Republican exiles fleeing Francoist repression.
For every 10 people who pass by my side 6 or 7 are students on their way to one of the many universities that are home to more than 60,000 students from all over France and many countries worldwide. By the way they dress and hairstyle I would almost classify them by race. The legal and economic relations with pressed slacks and starched, anthropologists, sociologists, and general social science and humanistic look a look more youthful and carefree.
Montpellier is one of the cities with more Mediterranean character, but the most, with a vibrant youthful atmosphere palpable in each of its corners, the result of which you can organize international events the likes of Hip Hop International Festival for the second year row is held in this city attracting 8000 spectators worldwide. This is not the only cultural event that gives the city one of the most dynamic cultural destinations in France, as throughout numerous festivals such as the Festival International Montpellier Danse, the Radio France et Montpellier Festival Languedoc-Roussillon, the Festival Extremes International des Sports, and Les Internationales de la Guitare, among many others.

Montpellier is a young city for its history but also for its population and more than half of its population is under 35, and 1 in 4 residents is a student, led largely by the prestige of their universities.
Capital of the Languedoc-Roussillon, is a city of tradition and creative activity that is passionate about culture, dance, music, theater and architecture among other genres.

The old town hub
After a hearty breakfast I decide to wander the historic city center. The nerve center of Montpellier is the Place de la Comedie, is located in the old part of the city, from there you can see museums and elegant mansions. In the center of the place I call attention especially the statue of Les 3 Graces. Work of Etienne d'Antoine, created in 1773, the statue-fountain of the 3 Graces (Aglaia, Euphrosyne and Thalia) is one of the emblems of Montpellier, let one of the typical recurring on postcards of the city. About three hours are enough to wander through its streets and feel the air we breathe, but I was told at the hotel that I miss the nightlife that is imposed from every Thursday and continues through Sunday, with Saturday night, as expected, the most spectacular and gathering more people.
I'm going down the Rue Foch from Pl Martyrs de la Resistance, up to the Arc de Triomphe. The square Martyrs de la Resistance, which as its name suggests, keeps a statue to commemorate the men who fought during the Second World War, is that kind of places in which every time you lose just there. Beyond the Arc de Triomphe, begins an open area that oxygenates the air of Montpellier, with gardens and walking and often people go to escape the siege of the daily chores. While some lovers kiss passionately, a dog slosh back and watching the compass of the tennis ball throws its owner vigorously. The days when, like today, it's sunny the place looks even magical.
I'm surprised with a kind of lake promenade du Peyrou called, dating from the sixteenth century and consists of a triumphal arch, a statue real (Louis XIV) and a water tower that tops an aqueduct. The aqueduct of San Clemente is located right on the back of the park. It was built in the seventeenth century with a length of 880m and two orders of arches which distributed the water from the fountain of San Clemente, situated 14 km from the city to the city center and its wash. The engineer Henri de Launay Pilot Bridge was inspired to build this work Gard supply consigning this precious resource in a large tank located near the triumphal arch. Today obviously not used to transport water, but has a significant utility, under its arcades house every Saturday morning touring a market in which products succeed bio, handmade cheeses, fruit and some meals prepared ideal for endurance stomach until dinner time.
Once the area back to the Arc de Triomphe, which created the King Louis XIV of France in the image and likeness of Parisian doors, climb down the boulevard Henri IV to reach the Cathedral of San Pedro de Montpellier, noted for its huge and imposing silhouette porch, and supported by two circular pillars, has the appearance of a medieval fortress.
Next door is La Faculté de Médecine de Montpellier, which is the oldest in the world activity. Montpellier was not yet two centuries of exitencia when, in 1180, his master, Guilhem Viii, signed an edict surprising. Stipulated that any person, regardless of their religion or their origins, had the right to teach medicine in Montpellier. Thus was born, in the late thirteenth century, the oldest medical school in the Western world still in activity.

I decide to spend my last day in town visiting the most important art museum, the Musée Fabre. http://www.museefabre.fr Considered one of the most important art museums in France, owes its origin to the painter François-Xavier Fabre montpellierino. It was built in 1825 and opened in 1828. Showing ceramics from Greece and the rest of Europe. It also has a large collection of paintings ranging from the seventeenth to the nineteenth century, with a broad representation of the movement of luminophiles. Currently, the collections include works of painters such as Eugène Delacroix and Gustave Courbet. There are also sculptures, like the creators of modern origin as Aristide Maillol Languedoc.
In Montpellier there are several architectural projects designed by the Catalan architect Ricardo Bofill, such as the so-called Antigone, a project in 1979 to give up some land purchased form the ministry of defense and that became a neighborhood that had all the necessary equipment located outside the River Lez.
To move around Montpellier the best advice I can give is to use the vast network of trams, but you also have the option to rent bikes. Anyway, the city is very quiet, and although traffic has problems like all big cities, is certainly not to the extent that if other towns have.

Montpellier (Occitan Montpelhièr) is located 10 km from the Mediterranean coast, being the capital of the region of Languedoc-Roussillon and Hérault department. It is crossed by two rivers: the Lez east, and west Mosson, coming from the Latin name monspessulanus, the various meanings attributed as Bald Mountain, Mount Hill, Mount spices or stony hill. The town was founded in the eighth century as a core Magalona dependent territories, although the frequent pirate attacks pushed the population to move inland. With the settlement of the counts of Toulouse in the tenth century, became an important commercial center, it became the capital of the Lordship of Montpellier, first under the Guillermos dynasty, and subsequently incorporated into the Crown of Aragon after the wedding Peter II of Aragon with Marie of Montpellier in 1204. After the death of his heir, James I, the manor passed to the Kingdom of Mallorca until the year 1349, when King James III sold the Occitania the French king Philip IV to raise funds in their war against Pedro IV of Aragon, being since then permanently incorporated into the kingdom of France. Montpellier was a fief of the Protestant Reformation, whose inhabitants, known as Huguenots, actively fought against the Catholic French crown. To crush the reformist pretensions, in 1622, King Louis XIII would take after a siege of nearly two years. During the nineteenth century became a busy industrial center, highlighted the production of textiles, metallurgical and food, of which continues to be an efficient producer. The University of Montpellier is one of the oldest of the French republic, founded in 1220 by Cardinal Conrad and confirmed by a Papal Bull in 1289. The city currently has three universities, among which are the most popular among international students to study languages ??in France. Population: 257,092 inhabitants.
Office de Tourisme de Montpellier, 30 Allée Jean de Lattre de Tassigny (04 67 60 60 60). Open from July to September, Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 19:30 and weekends from 9:30 to 13:00 and 14:30 to 18:00, October to June, Monday to Friday, 9: 00 to 18:30, Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00 and Sunday from 10:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 17:00. More information www.ot-montpellier.fr/es/
The climate can be defined as Montpellier Mediterranean with continental influences but, given its internal situation. The average annual temperature is 14 º C, the warmest month being July and the coldest January. In the section on rainfall, the city recorded 709 mm per year, equivalent to an average of 59 mm per month. The average number of days in which rainfall recorded is 88, July is the driest month and September the wettest, with an annual average humidity of 57%. The city enjoys 2742 hours of sunshine per year, equivalent to an average of 7.5 hours daily, July is the month with the most hours of sunshine in December and less.
The prefix of Montpellier is 04, but for calls from outside of France should drop the 0. The booths can be operated with the card company télécarte France Telecom worth 50 and 120 units (7.40 and 14.75 €), which can be purchased at post offices or tobacconists. The price of local calls is 0.12 € / min up to a radius of 30 km, 0.30 € / min interurban, 0.47 € / min and 0.65 to 0.83 the international € / min to depending mobile company. With reduced rate € 0.12 / min premises, 0.18 € / min interurban, 0.42 € / min from 0.47 to 0.53 and the international € / min to mobiles.
The Aéroport de Montpellier Méditerranée - MPL known as "Fréjorgues" (04 67 20 85 00), is in Mauguio, 7 km southeast of Montpellier. It is connected to Place de l'Europe via bus line 120, which offers twelve daily services from 6:00 to 21:15 from Place de l'Europe and 8:35 to 23:00 from the airport (fee € 1.50, with free TaM € 2.40 / 15 minute ride).

Gare Routière, Rue Grand Saint-Jean (04 67 92 01 43). Located a few hundred meters of the Gare Saint Roch and open Monday through Friday from 7:45 to 12:00 and 13:45 to 19:00. Eurolines (01 41 86 24 21) offers direct international connections with Barcelona (6 hours drive) and Madrid (13 hours away). Hérault Transport (08 25 34 01 34) offers hourly service to the beaches of Carnon and Grande Motte from Odysseum (1.40 € / 35 minutes), continuing some routes to Aigues Mortes (6.30 € / 90 minutes way).
The mild climate and 150 km of cycle paths that cross the city Montpellier make it a perfect destination for cycling, a bike path reaching the nearby beaches of Palavas les Flots and Carnon in an hour. Vélomagg (04 67 22 87 87) is the system of public bicycle loan, with which 1600 bicycles are distributed in 50 automatic stations that operate 24 hours a day. To use the service you must identify themselves with an ID previously in a main station (central station TaM bikes in the tourist office in the Maison d'Agglomération Centre, at the Maison d'Agglomération Odysseum, in automated posts rail stations and offices TAM), may purchase tickets 'Explorer' for 4 or 24 hours for 1 € and 2 € respectively, fertilizers 'Plage' to the nearby beaches or 'Explorer Family' to enjoy all the family. The tourist office offers the brochure "Montpellier à Vélo" with an updated map of Vélomagg stations and bike lanes. Bicycle Rental ADA, 58 bis Avenue Georges Clemenceau and the Gare St Roch, Place Auguste Comte.
To eat: La Diligence, 2 Place Pétrarque (tram 1: stop Comédie). Provencal cuisine served carefully and delicacies like 'Mil feuille of foie et agneau' or foie millefeuille and lamb as well as other more Mediterranean like gazpacho, or Irish influences like whiskey cellar. Le Grillardin, 3 Place Neuve Chapelle (tram 1: stop Louis Blanc). A romantic setting of the ancient city. They offer elaborate Provencal recipes, where stands venison, salmon ravioli salad 'pied de cochon'. It is essential to make room for 'fondant au chocolat' for dessert. Cellier Morel, 27 Rue de l'Aiguillerie (tram 1: stop Comédie). With an impressive vaulted ceiling, this restaurant is located on the ground floor of a hotel built in XIV century Gothic style. An expensive example of creative French cuisine and impeccable service, whose controls are chefs Eric Cellier and Pierre Morel. Les Bains de Montpellier, 6 Rue Richelieu (tram 1: stop Comédie). Located in a former bathhouse, 1770 and after more than 40 years left, was rehabilitated as trendy restaurant in 1998 by Guy Falco. They offer Mediterranean cuisine based on fish market, which varies each day. Excellent decor and good intentions, that are depleted with little care and preparation of dishes. Divine et Sens, 2 impasse Perier (tram 1: stop Comédie). Former 'Menestrel' has become a new place where the stone is still the protagonist in the decoration. Two rooms, two floors and two rooms: one romantic and one boisterous, to please all types of guests. Charter fair, although high prices. Morceau de Lune, 14 Rue du Saint-Gely Stack (tram 1 and 2: Corum stop). Another place to enjoy traditional Provencal cuisine, with original and well prepared dishes based on fresh ingredients. They offer good wine list, but the prices are too high for the quality of the dishes. Le Vieux Four, 59 Rue de l'Aiguillerie (tram 1: stop Louis Blanc). Great restaurant for lovers of good grilled meats. Young and lots of fun, in a room that is not easy to find. Prices in the usual line of Montpellier, although cheaper set menus.
Cafés: Café Latitude, 1 Rue Sainte-Croix. Possibly the most pleasant terrace in the center of Montpellier. A cozy little cafe, which leaves bring food from neighboring establishments where hours pass with parsimony. L'Heure Bleue, 1 Rue de la Carbonnerie (tram 1: stop Louis Blanc). Located in the historic hotel Baudon, is a colonial atmosphere teahouse and flooded for classical music, which also serves snacks and light meals. Café Riche, 8 Place Comedie (tram 1: stop Comédie). Located in the heart of Montpellier and international environment favored by its location, is an ideal place to see and be. Although the service is not very efficient, offering good sandwiches and brunch Sunday that attracts many tourists.

Pubs y discotecas: La Place de la Comédie se encuentra en el centro de la ciudad vieja, con numerosos cafés que en verano se pueblan de terrazas. A su alrededor se expanden pequeños pubs, frecuentados generalmente por estudiantes. Las discotecas más grandes se encuentran en la zona del río, siendo generalmente lo más selecto de la noche, evidentemente, previo pago de entrada. Circus, 3 Rue Collot ( tranvía 1: parada Comédie). Situado a sólo unos pasos de la céntrica Place Jean Jaurès, es uno de los garitos más famosos del centro de Montpellier. Está decorado a medio camino entre circo y lounge típicamente neoyorquino, ofreciendo cócteles y aperitivos, con música internacional y ritmos r'n'b. El Cuba Café, 1 Place de France ( tranvía 1: parada Odysseum). Los amantes de la salsa y de los ritmos latinos encontrarán en este local su centro de referencia para la noche. Es un restaurante y bar musical que se encuentra en el moderno barrio Odysseum y abre diariamente de 9:00 a 2:00. Rockstore, 20 Rue Verdun ( tranvía 1: parada Gare St-Roch). Un local que hace honor a su nombre y organiza las mejores noches Erasmus de Montpellier. Está formado por una sala de conciertos, una discoteca y un café-rock. Decorado al gusto de los años 60 y con una acústica mejorable, por donde desfilan algunas de las mejores bandas de rock de Francia. Le Panama Cafe, 5 Rue de la République ( tranvía 1: parada Gare St-Roch). Una discoteca formada por dos salas, una 'kitch' y otra latina, donde se dan cita la mayoría de los estudiantes de las tres universidades. Buen ambiente hasta bien entrada la madrugada, donde además presumen de ser la única discoteca con entrada gratuita de Montpellier. Cargo, 5 Rue du Grand Saint-Jean ( tranvía 1: parada Gare St-Roch). Otro bar musical que se suma a la moda de los garitos para universitarios, que a tantos estudiantes de cursos de francés en Francia atraen. Abre de martes a sábados de 20:00 a 2:00 y viernes y sábados hasta las 5:00, siendo la entrada gratuita hasta las 0:00. Los martes organizan fiestas latinas y al menos un par de veces al mes también noches para Erasmus. Le Fizz, 4 Rue Cauzit ( tranvía 1: parada Comédie). Es un pub pequeño y simpático del centro histórico, bastante frecuentado por los estudiantes locales. Pinchan música muy comercial y fácilmente bailable. Point Zéro, 4 Quai du Verdanson ( tranvía 1: parada Louis Blanc). Ambiente más 'underground', en un local de dos niveles donde cada noche de martes a sábados es una fiesta dirigida a una nacionalidad diferente. Estamos en una de las capitales Erasmus de Francia y se nota
Gays y lesbianas: Le Café de la Mer, 5 Place Marché aux Fleurs ( tranvía 1: parada Louis Blanc). Se trata de uno de los locales favoritos por la comunidad gay y lésbica de Montpellier. Es un agradable café con terraza exterior, que se convierte en un punto ideal de encuentro para un público generalmente universitario. Le Heaven, 1 Rue Delpech ( tranvía 1: parada Louis Blanc). Situado justo a la vuelta de la esquina del anterior y bastante frecuentado a partir de las 20:00, generalmente por gays y amigos. Villa Rouge, Route de Palavas, Lattes ( bus 32). Situado al sur de Montpellier y aunque no es estrictamente gay, se ha convertido en la discoteca de referencia para la comunidad LGTB. Un gran equipo internacional de dj's y un potente juego de láseres convierte cada noche del fin de semana en una gran fiesta.
Playas: Los 12 km que separan Montpellier de Palavas-Les-Flots suelen ser recorridos por muchos urbanitas en bicicleta. Palavas es un centro turístico, con escuela de 'kitesurf' incluido, formado por una estrecha franja de tierra situada entre el mar y los pantanos Étang de Perols, Étang de l'Arnel y Étang du Prévost, donde anidan numerosas aves acuáticas. En dirección norte por la misma franja de tierra se abren las turísticas playas de Carnon y Grande-Motte, de fina arena blanca. Ubicada a 10 km al suroeste de Montpellier, Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone ofrece a los amantes de la tranquilidad 3.000 hectáreas de naturaleza preservada.
La ciudad conserva un cuidado casco antiguo de origen medieval y prácticamente peatonal, que gira entorno a la Place de la Comédie, cuyo apodo "el huevo" se debe a su forma oval. El centro de la plaza se encuentra ocupado por la Fontaine des Trois Graces de 1796, aunque la estatua que se expone en la actualidad es una copia, ya que la original se conserva en el interior del vecino teatro. Alrededor de la plaza se levantan elegantes mansiones de Hausmann del siglo XIX.

The Canal du Midi
Browse through Languedoc is one of the most enjoyable ways to discover this region of France. He was a tax collector from Béziers, Pierre-Paul Riquet (1604-1680), who took the initiative to bring out the old dream of union between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. This agreed with the French state to change its personal financing future exploitation of the channel and its banks through tolls and taxes.
The work began in 1667 at the hands of 12,000 workers, who worked coup pick and shovel digging 240 miles of canal from Toulouse to the salt lake of Le Bassin de Thau, and from there to the Mediterranean. To do this, diverted the conduct of the Montagne Noire springs up Narouze Sill. The canal is 19 feet wide and crosses 63 locks, some even triple and quadruple, as the elegant "water ladder" that crosses Béziers, totaling 135 meters by a stone bridge or tunnel drilled Paraza next to Colombiers port. Riquet could not see his work finished exhausted and died in 1680, when only 4 km excavation subtracted to reach the Mediterranean. His sons took up the project, and got only a few more months to finish this work, inaugurating in May 1681 with a fleet of boats that crossed the channel in four days.
Was thus opened the Royal Canal des Deux Mers between (or Royal Canal between the two seas), giving way to a new form of communication between the east and west of France. The flamboyant vessels crossing the canal soon became the new image of the area, with large barges were powered by horses from the shore. Flourished and streamlined trade and postal communications, passing just be delayed 35 hours to cover the 240 km long, in 1898, to nationalize the canal, were free of tolls. Riquet The romantic vision of union between the two coasts, was completed in 1856 with the opening of the Canal de Garonne Toulouse linking the Atlantic.
Obviously, the new twentieth century railway communications infrastructure relegated to the background. The Canal was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and is currently one of the best alternative forms of tourism in France.

La Place Royale du Peyrou is a large expanse flanked by trees, at whose end stands the Arc de Triomphe in 1692 and the Château d'Eau, a water tower with hexagonal shape, which ends in St-Clément Aqueduc-in Boulevard des Arceaux-whose 880 meters long and 22 high offer one of the best nighttime illuminations Montpellier. De la Place Royale comes the elitist Rue Foch, where lovers enjoy big brands.
To the north lies the Jardin des Plantes, at 163 Rue Broussonet-the oldest botanical garden in France, created in 1593 to investigate the medicinal uses of plants (tram 1: Place Albert 1er, Tuesday to Sunday from June to September 12:00 to 20:00, October to May from 12:00 to 18:00; Free).
Beside him stands the austere Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, the fifteenth century, whose enormous porte survived religious conflicts that ravaged the region in the sixteenth century (tram 1: Place Albert 1er, from 9:00 to 12:00 and from 14:30 to 19:00).
Returning to the Rue Foch and past the Arc de Triomphe, right extends the old neighborhood, or Ancien Courrier Mail. The Place Sainte-Anne gives access to the Conservatory of Music and several workshops luthiers, from whose windows you can observe artisans making violins and guitars. The Rue de l'Ancien Courrier is another elegant medieval palaces dotted artery, in which are installed low luxury boutiques, which provide access to the romantic Place Saint-Roch.
It was during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries when wealthy merchants who settled in the huge mansions sober up outside, but with gorgeous courtyards. Stand the Hôtel St-Côme in Grand Rue Jean Moulin, where students from the nearby medical school came to the first session of anatomy and whose offices are now the Chamber of Commerce of Montpellier. Down the road stands the Tour de Babote, XII century tower, which has withstood the successive transformations of the city. The Hôtel des Trésoriers of France-in 7 Rue de Jacques Coeur, is also one of the highlights of Montpellier, with a beautiful XV century architecture.
The Musée Fabre-in 39-boulevard Bonne Nouvelle is devoted to the fine arts, the most famous of the city. Been installed since 1828 in the former Hôtel Massillian, with later additions like Columns Gallery, 1878 and newer wing, dedicated to contemporary art. Your valuable funds offer a vast collection of Flemish and Dutch masters of the seventeenth century, as well as Italian, French and Spanish as Ribera and Zurbarán. Among contemporary artists include the works of Delacroix or Bazille, to Courbet (tram 1: stop Comédie, Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00; adults 6 €, concessions 4 €, audioguide € 1).
The Musée Languedocien-in 7 Rue Jacques-Coeur offers a motley collection of historical objects from the sixteenth to the nineteenth, and the important archaeological finds have been located in the area (tram 1: Comedie stop, Monday through Saturday from 14: 30 to 17:30, from 15 June to 15 September from 15:00 to 18:00; adults € 7, students € 4).
The Hôtel de Varennes-en-2 Place Pétrarque is a remarkable mansion built in a mixture of Romanesque and Gothic styles, which include the Romanesque capitals originally belonging to the church of Notre Dame des Tables. It houses the Musée du Vieux Montpellier, noted for its collection of historical objects relating to the city from the Middle Ages to the French Revolution (1 tram stop: Corum, Tuesday to Sunday from 10:30 to 12:30 and 13: 30 to 18:00; adults 3 €, under 26 free).
Another museum of interest is the Musée de l'Histoire de Montpellier-in Place Jean Jaures, located in the crypt of the church of Notre Dame des Tables. It tells the story of the city through an audio-visual special effects (tram 1: stop Comédie, Tuesday to Sunday from 10:30 to 12:30 and 13:30 to 18:00; adults 3 €).
The Faculty of Medicine-in 2 Rue de l'Ecole de Médecine, also contains a rich collection of French drawings, Flemish and Italian in the Musée Atger, whose origin is due to Xavier Atger wealthy collector who bequeathed funds to the University ( September to July Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 13:30 to 17:45; Free).
Agropolis-on Avenue d'Agropolis-951 is a modern, interactive museum, children's favorite, offering a lively exhibition of the evolution from the point of view of power, from the primitive hunting and gathering of food to the modern consumer . Nearby are located in the Serre-amazonienne 50 Avenue d'Agropolis-a greenhouse where playing an Amazon ecosystem, huge perfect complement Montpellier Zoo, which forms the second largest in France (bus 9, from Tuesday to Sunday in summer from 10:00 to 18:30 and in winter from 9:00 to 17:00; adults € 6.40, students € 3.10, 6 to 12 years € 2.60).
Back to the center and walk through the park formed by elongated Esplanade Charles de Gaulle, Corum is reached, a giant conference center, used also as the Opéra de Montpellier, with a capacity of 2,000 spectators.
The modern extension of Montpellier Odysseum forming the neighborhood, houses the Odysseum leisure center, where is located the Mare Nostrum Aquarium, an innovative exhibition that played 15 aquatic ecosystems, from seas and rainforests, to polar waters (tram 1: stop Odysseum , July and August from 10:00 to 22:00, May, June and September from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 20:00, October to April from 10:00 to 19:00; adults € 15.50, concessions € 12.50, children 7 to 12 years € 11.50, from 3 to 6 years 7 €).
Another highlight is Antigone district, a masterpiece of architect Ricardo Bofill, whose architecture never indifferent. Polygone shopping center, also the architect work, serves as union with the Place de la Comédie.
The tourist office recommends the use of the card Montpellier City Card, which costs 12 €, 19 € and 25 € for 24, 48 and 72 hours respectively (16 €, 23 € and 29 € with access to the Fabre Museum).

The Canal du Midi
Browse through Languedoc is one of the most enjoyable ways to discover this region of France. He was a tax collector from Béziers, Pierre-Paul Riquet (1604-1680), who took the initiative to bring out the old dream of union between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. This agreed with the French state to change its personal financing future exploitation of the channel and its banks through tolls and taxes.
The work began in 1667 at the hands of 12,000 workers, who worked coup pick and shovel digging 240 miles of canal from Toulouse to the salt lake of Le Bassin de Thau, and from there to the Mediterranean. To do this, diverted the conduct of the Montagne Noire springs up Narouze Sill. The canal is 19 feet wide and crosses 63 locks, some even triple and quadruple, as the elegant "water ladder" that crosses Béziers, totaling 135 meters by a stone bridge or tunnel drilled Paraza next to Colombiers port. Riquet could not see his work finished exhausted and died in 1680, when only 4 km excavation subtracted to reach the Mediterranean. His sons took up the project, and got only a few more months to finish this work, inaugurating in May 1681 with a fleet of boats that crossed the channel in four days.
Was thus opened the Royal Canal des Deux Mers between (or Royal Canal between the two seas), giving way to a new form of communication between the east and west of France. The flamboyant vessels crossing the canal soon became the new image of the area, with large barges were powered by horses from the shore. Flourished and streamlined trade and postal communications, passing just be delayed 35 hours to cover the 240 km long, in 1898, to nationalize the canal, were free of tolls. Riquet The romantic vision of union between the two coasts, was completed in 1856 with the opening of the Canal de Garonne Toulouse linking the Atlantic.
Obviously, the new twentieth century railway communications infrastructure relegated to the background. The Canal was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and is currently one of the best alternative forms of tourism in France.

The historic center

Discover the historical
Discover the prodigious rise and exceptional destination Montpellier city has developed over the centuries.
Our guides have prepared a visit that will enable them to appreciate the very special atmosphere of our historic downtown, commonly known as the Écusson form.
Montpellier warily keeps hidden treasures of incalculable value, with the visit of the historical (Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and every day in summer) monuments, Faculty of Medicine, mansions ...
Places of interest:
- The Fabre Museum
- The historic center with its medieval streets and mansions
- Place de la Comédie
- The Faculty of Medicine, the Western world's oldest still-active and Botanical Gardens
- The mansions in the city center, and the "folies" (cottages or recreational) XVIII century around
- The mikveh, Jewish ritual bath
- The Arc de Triomphe
- The Cathedral of St. Peter
- The district of Antigone Ricardo Bofill and the banks of the Lez
- Odysseum, Galileo Planetarium

Participate to visit the historic center with the audio guide and listen to the comments in your language.
Free audio guide for participants of the guided tour of the historic center. (Limited availability).
More information on the audioguide
Every day from January 2 to January 6 and February 16 to March 17. (At 14:30)
Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 9 January to 13 February and from 20 March to 31 March.
Reserve the tour online or by calling 00 33 (4) 67 60 60 60

Drink Wine

Mediterranean Cooking Classes
Knowing Montpellier through its people and their environment is a vital experience. Therefore, it pays to shop around at the foot of the aqueduct market day and taste firsthand the authentic Mediterranean flavor.
If desired, the Chef Valerie Sabatino accompany you in person to go shopping with a gourmet Mediterranean cooking course taught by the chef himself.
www.atelier-valerie.com (in French)

A treat for the palate
Do not leave without having sat in Montpellier one of their tasty tables. The fine cuisine reigns in the city, and the chefs compete with wit and passion to provide great moments.
From Le Jardin des Sens, with two stars in the Michelin Guide, via La Maison de la Lozère - Cellier Morel, whose contemporary décor blends wonderfully with the vaulted ceilings of the medieval restaurant; until Tamarillos and cooking fruit and flowers or Angelic box Domaine de Soriech, between the coast and Montpellier, not forgetting the many gourmet restaurants that the city offers. For the restaurant can satisfy your palate and awaken your senses!
Information about restaurants (in French)

Since antiquity, the Languedoc vineyard produces wines of great quality varied.
The discovery of the Montpellier region is by itself an invitation to meet with vineyard ...
"Les Grès de Montpellier"
Do not forget to try the Grès de Montpellier, Montpellier's name made the best of the hills of the Languedoc, deep ruby ??red wines because traditional strains of black grenache, "syrah", "Mourvèdre" red fruit aromas evolve over time to cherry cherry, candied fruit, spices, to meet every taste and a powerful and fine flavor at a time, which persists in the mouth perfectly ...
List of producers (in French)

Millésime Bio 2012 Mondial Montpellier wine grape farming

Millésime Bio 2012 Montpellier was born in 1993 thanks to the initiative of some winemakers in Languedoc-Roussillon (south of France) association members AIVB-LR. His goal was, and still is, to inform buyers of wine products, and the characteristics of the new vintage. Although the event has grown remarkably, still exudes the relaxed atmosphere of its origins. Millésime Bio has become the global salon and professional wine resulting from organic agriculture. It is held every year in late January (odd years in the Montpellier Exhibition Park and peers in Perpignan) under somewhat peculiar conception.

Millésime Bio 2012 Montpellier classroom and professional global wine resulting from organic farming, will be held again this year in the French city of Montpellier, in the next 23 to 25 January 2012, at the premises of the Parc des Expositions Montpellier, showing the latest developments and trends.

 

Reasons to visit Montpellier

Located on the shores of the Mediterranean, 3 hours from Barcelona and Italy, Montpellier is the best for a stay of discovery in southern Europe.
Reputed to be one of the most dynamic cities of France for its great cultural program, Montpellier offers internationally renowned festivals and historical heritage medieval and modern, one exceptional gastronomy and great wines cult.

• Montpellier DESIGN AND TREND
RBC Design Center in Montpellier
An exceptional place famous store brands of contemporary furniture and exhibition, with a unique architecture of Jean Nouvel: 9 levels suspended, a front light and lively ... in a neighborhood with lots of potential for development, Port Marianne district.

Port Marianne and the new Hotel de Ville
Port Marianne is a new neighborhood where people work and relax: terraces, parks, esplanades Fainsilber designed by André René Dottelonde, Vasconi Claude, Christian de Portzamparc, Jean Nouvel, François Fontès, Philippe Bonon ...
Here the nature is balanced and harmonious. Going through the Jardins de la Lironde, a residence to "the field" is the square with Ernest Granier activiadad pole and pond Jacques Coeur.
You can stroll along the river Lez, Lez do Conoa on or bicycle to visit the new Hotel de Ville (City Hall) designed by Jean Nouvel.

Tram
The Montpellier tram is famous and Quatros refer to the elements: air line 1, line 1 land, the water line 3, the fire line 4 ...
Lines 3 and 4 are designed by Christian Lacroix.

pierresvives
Pierresvives meets a library, a sports and municipal offices and was designed by Zaha Hadid.

• BUSINESS Montpellier
Third conference destination in France
Mediterranean city par excellence, endowed with a rich heritage and only a few kilometers from the sea, Montpellier is located in a privileged position in terms of tourism business are concerned.
Important strategically located infrastructure make it a fact: Corum, one of the few convention centers located in the city center, Park & ??Suites Arena, a multipurpose space with a capacity of up to 14,000 people and new hotels of 3 and 4 Stars: **** Crowne Plaza Montpellier Corum, Hôtel Courtyard by Marriott ****, Best Western Eurociel ***, Holiday Inn Express Montpellier Odysseum ***.
More information (in French)

• Learn French as a Foreign Language
Montpellier is the second city of France learning French. It has twenty academies FLE (French as a Foreign Language), which, translated into figures, representing about 10,000 students a year.
The average length of stay is 15 days, although sometimes covering an entire school year. About 100,000 room nights correspond to linguistic stays. Come to learn French in one of 20 schools in Montpellier!
More information on French as a Foreign Language

Hotel Deals in Montpellier

Simplify the organization of your stay by booking your accommodation in central reservations Montpellier Tourist Office .
Hotels, guest houses , tourist residences : in few clicks book your stay as a couple , with your family or business.

If you want to discover the city , choose a guided tour in French Montpellier Tourist Office or opt for our City Card that offers free entry and reductions.
Tours , concerts , entertainment ... discover all the deals you can book on our website to schedule from now your stay.

Stay offers , good plans , reductions , think resamontpellier to book your next weekend in Montpellier.

Offer " Escape to Montpellier / Montpellier City Break"
A getaway package Montpellier to explore the city as you prefer ! The offer includes one or more nights + breakfast + City Card + an optional lunch .
Booking from 60 € / person

 

 

The beaches of Montpellier

Montpellier also has a coastline of charm fully preserved.

Far from the crowd, at the antipodes of spas grounded and located 10 km southwest of Montpellier , Villeneuve -lès - Maguelone offers lovers of tranquility 3000 acres of preserved nature.
From its forest of oaks 150 to 300 years old , which extends over 8 ha , 4 of which are equipped for adventure tours , via ferrata and giant zip line , to the vineyards , ponds and beaches, there are many activities in nature.

In the center of this charming landscape between sea and lake, the imposing cathedral of Maguelone was one of the main centers of Christianity in Languedoc -Roussillon . It goes to the site of interest protected miniature train , on foot or by bicycle , as also for the beach ... For even more change of air!

Go to the beaches from Montpellier :
- By car: route de Palavas ( D986 ) or sea route ( D21 )
- In tramway / bus: bus line 3 Pérols and 132 to 131 for Carnon and Palavas bus
- By bus:
Line 106 Montpellier / Aigues Mortes (for Carnon , La Grande Motte , Grau du Roi him )
Line 102 Montpellier / Sète ( byLes Aresquiers , Frontignan )
- By bike: bike lanes to Palavas , Carnon, La Grande Motte or Villeneuve les Maguelone

 

Two days in Montpellier

Montpellier, in southern France offers an exciting combination of old and new. The city is located just 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from the Mediterranean Sea and has a lovely mild climate. Montpellier is a great point for trips for the whole region, but the city itself has some amazing tourist attractions to keep you busy few days. Montpellier has a busy urban center and cozy small cobbled streets and sunny squares, but also has a large expanse of parks. The city has one of the oldest universities in Europe and almost a quarter of the city, 250 inhabitants are students. This large presence of young people also explains the fantastic selection of shops and cafes present in the city and of course the lively nightlife! In recent years, the city has focused on the renewal and innovation, which can be seen in projects such as the new city hall and the new tram, which was designed by Christian Lacroix. In this article we will take a trip to Montpellier and we will show you everything you can see and do in 48 hours!
day 1
10h - Start your trip to Montpellier visiting the starting point of the city, the Plaza de la Comédie. This historic square is surrounded by shops and cafés and soon you will feel the atmosphere of the city. In the center of the historic square you will find the fountain of the Three Graces, which was sculpted in 1790 La Comedie Opéra is located in the southwest corner of the square, where you can see an opera in the afternoon. In the northeast corner of the square you will find one of the many parks of Montpellier: Esplanade Charles de Gaulle.
After seeing the square and park, be prepared to do some shopping and see the city at the same time. In the east of the Plaza de la Comédie is a large modern shopping center called Polygon, which has many small shops and many French chain stores. After visiting Polygon and complex Antigone, go west to explore the cobbled streets of Montpellier and do some shopping in the quaint little shops that you will find around. Eat at one of the many cafes that you can find in the alleys around Martys Square de la Resistance.
14h - After lunch, walk west from Martyrs Square by the resistence Foch Street for more shopping. At the end of Foch Street you will see the Arc de Triomphe towering above the road. This arch was built on the site of one of the ancient city walls. You can take a guided tour to the top of the Arc to have fantastic views of Montpellier and the landscape around the city. Alternatively, you can also cross the Professeur Louis Boulevard to Paseo Vialleton Peyrou, which is the highest point of Montpellier. The walk is crossed by an ancient aqueduct, which was used to transport water to the city. The Chateau Eau at the western end of the ride provides a great view of the arches of the aqueduct and can even climb to the top for a fantastic view of the Mediterranean Sea on a clear day!
17h - Like many Mediterranean cities, Montpellier is known for its farmers markets with fresh ingredients like fruits, vegetables, breads, cheeses, meats, fish and more. By late afternoon, return to the center of the city and seek Les Halles Castellane, is a local market which is open Monday to Sunday from 7:30 to 19:30. Here you can get ingredients to make your own traditional dinner of Southern France. If you need inspiration on what to prepare, visit this article on food and ingredients of southern France.
To prepare a French dinner for friends or family, of course you need to have access to their own kitchen. Renting an apartment in Montpellier, you can not only cook a real French cuisine, but also will have enough space to invite people to your house for dinner. We have apartments available for vacation rental in Montpellier offering a perfect accommodation for vacation, to explore the city as you provide a real experience typical South of France.
day 2
10h-Start the day with a cultural experience in the Fabre Museum, one of the Fine Arts Museums of Europe's most impressive. The newly renovated museum houses a collection of paintings from the seventeenth to the twentieth century.
Open yourselves way through the museum and into the exciting art perdeos belonging to different periods of history. Make sure you do not lose you the new modern gallery exhibiting works by Pierre Soulages, as it has a completely different space from the other galleries.
Spot id south from the museum by the Plaza de la Comédie to Les Bains Michelin restaurant in the Rue Richelieu. The restaurant offers a fantastic Mediterranean cuisine and even has an outdoor garden where you can enjoy the food during the summer months.
14h - Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful beach near Montpellier! Gather the tram to the Port Marianne in Montpellier and from there you can take bus 131 to Palavas-les-Flots, a small coastal town only 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) south of the city.
The village has white sand beaches that stretch kilometers along the Mediterranean coast. Bring your swimsuit, towel and sunscreen for a pleasant afternoon on the beach. The beach is popular with families and young people. You will also see many windsurfers and kitesurfers fans trying to show their skills in the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean.
In winter, a good alternative to the beach is the Odysseum shopping center, located on the outskirts of Montpellier. The complex has an interesting Odysseum urban design and includes an aquarium, a planetarium and a skating rink on ice!
18h -Terminad day in Palavas-les-Flots testing a fish dish at one of the local restaurants.
The city started as a fishing village, so you can be sure that the quality of the food is excellent! A great activity to do with children before dinner is riding on Transcanal, which is the smallest lift in the world, crossing the channel which separates the west side of the eastern part of the city. Gather the bus to return to Montpellier after dinner and if you have any energy left can explore the nightlife of the city after a quick shower in the apartment. You will find cafes and bars throughout the city center and Montpellier also has two wonderful Irish pubs: O'Caralan's and Fitzpatrick's.