The best city hikes and walks around Lodève

A few steps from the Sans Souci park, this monument pays tribute to Louis Paulhan (1883-1963), a child of Pézenas who became one of the pioneers of French aviation. At a time when flying was still an achievement, he participated in the great moments of the beginnings of aeronautics and contributed to writing the history of the pioneers of the sky. Passionate about flying machines from a young age, he obtained the 10th French pilot's license in 1909 and was noticed at the first air shows. In April 1910, he entered legend by winning the famous Daily Mail prize for the London-Manchester flight, an aerial crossing of nearly 300 km completed in less than 24 hours. This earned him international fame. He later participated in the development of seaplanes and also became an aircraft manufacturer.

The church was built in 1686 as part of the Ursuline convent. The Ursulines were a Catholic women's order particularly dedicated to the education of girls. The convent was established on the grounds of the former Hôtel de Paulhan, where King Louis XIII and Queen Anne of Austria are said to have even stayed previously. Particularly noteworthy is the magnificent gilded Baroque altarpiece (retable) from 1688. It was created by the sculptor Jacques Thomas and is considered one of the most important Baroque artworks in Pézenas. The church also houses a Black Madonna, which originates from an older chapel of the Knights Hospitaller. After the Concordat of 1801, Sainte-Ursule became the town's parish church and remains an active place of worship to this day. Its location is also interesting: directly next door is the former theatre of Pézenas, which was originally the chapel of the Black Penitents (Pénitents Noirs). Molière is said to have performed there already when he was active in Pézenas.

Saint-Ursule Church – The baroque church of the former Ursuline convent is one of the most beautiful sacred buildings in Pézenas. Particularly impressive are the magnificent gilded high altar from the 17th century and the Black Madonna. Together with the neighboring historic theater, the church forms a significant cultural ensemble in the old town.

On the Place de la République stands the Monument aux Morts, the war memorial of the city of Pézenas. History of the memorial The memorial was erected after the First World War and commemorates the fallen soldiers from Pézenas. As in almost every French municipality, the names of citizens who lost their lives in the World Wars and other military conflicts were engraved. Such war memorials hold a special significance, particularly in France. Every year on November 11 (Armistice Day 1918) and May 8 (end of the Second World War in Europe), memorial ceremonies take place there. Design Typical of French war memorials, the monument features an allegorical figure representing the Republic, victory, or remembrance. The engraved names make it clear how strongly even smaller towns like Pézenas were affected by the wars of the 20th century. Significance of the square The Place de la République is one of the central squares of Pézenas. The memorial forms an important place of remembrance there and is regularly used for official ceremonies and wreath-laying.

Monument aux Morts – The War Memorial of Pézenas commemorates the citizens of the town who lost their lives in the wars of the 20th century. The memorial site, centrally located on the Place de la République, is still a venue for official commemorative ceremonies and an important part of the town's history.

Monument to Louis Paulhan – A tribute to the famous aviation pioneer from Pézenas. Born here in 1883, the pilot was one of the world's first aviators and set several flight records even before World War I. Yes, the monument commemorates Louis Paulhan, one of Pézenas' most famous sons. He was born in the town in 1883 and was one of the very early aviation pioneers in the world. Why is he so significant? * He received French pilot's license No. 10 – at a time when flying was still a dangerous adventure. * In 1909 and 1910, he set several altitude, distance, and duration flight records. * At the first international air meeting in Los Angeles in 1910, he won the competition and set a then-world altitude record of over 1,200 meters. * His flight from London to Manchester in 1910 became particularly famous, winning him a prestigious competition and gaining him international recognition. The Monument in Pézenas Pézenas is very proud of its famous aviation pioneer. A monument was erected in his birthplace in his memory. Additionally, since 1983, a square has borne his name. He is also buried in Pézenas. Interesting Anecdote When Paulhan gave flight demonstrations in California in 1910, he met a young man named William Edward Boeing. This young man later became the founder of **Boeing⁠**.

Place Gambetta – The gateway to the old town of Pézenas. The spacious square with its magnificent Fontaine du Peyrou invites you to linger and is the ideal starting point for exploring the historic old town.

Place Gambetta is one of the most important squares in Pézenas and, in a way, forms the southern gateway to the historic old town. History The square was created in the 19th century after parts of the old city fortifications were removed. It was named after the French statesman Léon Gambetta, a key figure in the Third French Republic. The Fontaine du Peyrou The centerpiece of the square is the impressive Fontaine du Peyrou. The fountain was erected in 1898 and is adorned with a monumental column and allegorical figures. It commemorates the importance of the water supply for the city and is considered one of the most famous photo opportunities in Pézenas. Today Place Gambetta is a lively meeting point with cafés, restaurants, and shady plane trees. From here, you can directly access the narrow streets of the old town with its city palaces, artisan shops, and historic buildings. Especially on market days, there is a hustle and bustle here, and many visitors begin their tour of Pézenas right at this square.