Thiviers in the Dordogne

Thiviers is an active working market town that has seemingly remained unchanged with the passing years. There are lots of small local shops and pleasant cafes near the town centre.

town square of Thiviers

The main square is in fact a long tree lined rectangle with the church at one end and a car parking region at the other end. Very close to the back wall of the church is a small chateau that over looks the valley. You cannot go in as it is privately owned but it is still interesting to view from the front.

Do not make a big detour or journey to visit Thiviers. There is not really a lot to see. If you are nearby then stop and have a drink at one of the cafes and walk around the main square, church and small chateau

Thiviers is a good base for exploring this northern part of the Dordogne region. There are many holiday houses, gites and villas in the area. The town falls between the more deeply undulating landscape to the north and the more gently rolling countryside to the south. Thiviers prides itself on its local speciality - foie gras - and the other local products such as walnuts and truffles. Indeed the town prides itself on being the 'Capital of the foie gras in Green Perigord'.

Chateau of Thiviers

To learn more visit the museum in the town dedicated to foie gras production. Foie gras aside, it is the old part of the town near the church that will hold the most interest for visitors. Especially, don't miss the devilish carvings on the columns in the church. The town also has an important history of producing pottery (faience) and there is a museum dedicated to the story of the production.

While at Thiviers don't miss the nearby village of St-Jean-de-Cole, 7 km to the west - an attractive village with a stone bridge over the river, and a well-preserved old centre with covered market and church.

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