Visit Saint-Clar de Lomagne, the capital of white garlic

Come and visit with us the Gers bastide of Saint-Clar de Lomagne, which dates from the end of the 13th century. It was also at this time that most of the Occitan bastides were built. Even today this medieval style is very representative of these “new cities”. Saint-Clar is also the capital of Lomagne white garlic, a powerful remedy and an ally of choice in the kitchen...

Lomagne white garlic

A local product

Impossible to mention Saint-Clar de Lomagne without referring to a specialty that has made its reputation and fame for several centuries already! Lomagne white garlic is mainly grown in agricultural areas adjoining the town of Saint-Clar and the nearby villages that make up Lomagne, at the gates of Gascony. This proximity and geographical particularity has enabled it to benefit from a Protected Geographical Indication (fr) (PGI) since 2009. And Saint-Clar is even qualified as the “Capital of white garlic in Lomagne”. This IGP is an asset for the white gold of Lomagne, because it reflects the work of passionate and local professionals and it is the symbol of an authentic and quality product.

The advantages of Lomagnol garlic

Lomagne white garlic is recognizable on the one hand by its color: mostly very white, even ivory, some bulbs nevertheless have some purple flames. In the markets or in local shops, you can buy them by the head or in manually braided ropes. Frequently used as a condiment to enhance our dishes, it can nevertheless be the central ingredient in your recipes (fr): like Tourin Lomagnol which is a local speciality. This is a traditional soup with garlic as the main ingredient.

Saint-Clar, a Gers bastide like no other

What differentiates Saint-Clar from other bastides in the region is the presence of two squares with arcades.

The Hall of Saint-Clar de Lomagne

On the main square of the village, you will see the superb hall with wooden pillars. Head below and observe the remarkable carpentry work. If you are curious, you can count 20 beams that support this exceptional architectural ensemble. This hall is also classified as a Historic Monument. At the back, you will observe the Hôtel de Ville, built in 1818. And, here again, it is a peculiarity specific to Saint-Clar, a campanile was added there, ten years later. This beautiful picturesque ensemble is a privileged place since it is here that the weekly market takes place every Thursday morning.

The hall, the campanile and the wooden frame

The arcades of the Place de Saint-Clar

Several opulent stone houses shelter the arcades, more commonly called "covered" or "angles". You can admire them near the Town Hall, but also Place de la République (or Plaçote).

And if you take advantage of a little freshness under the arcades?

Around the latter, you can see two covered arcades. And if you want to take a leap into the past, imagine that in the past these were closed by a fortified gate.

To discover in the bastide of Saint-Clar de Lomagne

The pretty white stone used for these constructions makes a harmonious, charming and pleasant building. The sweetness of life and serenity seem to reign supreme here. Also, it is very pleasant to walk there, without real purpose, and to discover pretty places.

Along the alleys…

The Garden of the 4 seasons

It is a pleasant square that awaits you. It has been fitted out in a poetic and peaceful spirit. You could almost say it's a romantic place. The bust that sits there is that of a former canon, born in the village.

How pleasant it is to walk in the garden of the 4 seasons

The churches of Saint-Clar de Lomagne

• The parish church of Saint-Clair: In neo-Gothic style, it dates from the end of the 19th century and houses a recently restored organ.

• The old Sainte-Catherine church : The oldest part is its bell tower. It dates from the 12th century. It is now disused and is regularly used as a place for exhibitions or concerts.

Sainte-Catherine's Church has become a place hosting various events

The walkway

For those who would like to enjoy more greenery and be able to observe the surroundings, enjoy a short walk along the walkway. This follows the old route of the fortifications that surrounded the village.

As you will have understood, the bastide of Saint-Clar de Lomagne is a stopover not to be missed during your discovery of the remarkable sites of the Gers. Its history and the beauty of its pretty squares will transport you to another era. Take advantage of this visit to feel the serenity that reigns in this incredible picturesque village. And if the heat is overwhelming, don't hesitate to go to the leisure center where you can swim and cool off.

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Article and photos prepared by Charline Prod'Homme for the Guide du Gers