One of the prettiest villages in France - Moncontour.

Last week after we'd visited Manoir de Beaugard we went on to Moncontour.

The small town dates back to medieval times and sits on a hill protected by its walls.

It has recently joined the list of one of the prettiest in France.

One of the old gates in the walls.

Every two years there is a medieval festival

 which really is wonderful.

People come from everywhere to watch the procession through the town and also too see all the other displays like jousting.

The next festival is in 2013.

Local children dressed as beggars at the festival.

Stilt walkers in amazing costumes.

Knights riding through the town after the jousting.

In September the town becomes more peaceful and there is a chance to take photographs more easily.

 The shops all carry medieval signs so they fit in with the medieval feel of the town.

The church bell tower looking so good against the blue September sky.

Flowers everywhere give the pretty town such charm.

The facade of this house is very unusual with its terracota pillars .
It once belonged to a wealthy merchant.

This old house below is for sale but needs a lot of work and didn't seem to get much sunshine but the details on it are just wonderful.

Just love the man on his horse on this roof - I think they are to protect the house from lightning.

Lots of niches with holy statues to protect the houses.

Carved detail on the wall of an old house.

I

Typical of the area - this blue paint.

If you ever get the chance to go to Moncontour in Brittany you'll not be disappointed.