The capital of Gâtine, a town of Art and History and an old stopping place along the Way of St. James, the medieval town of Parthenay on the banks of the Thouet invites lovers of architecture to discover its ancient heritage. See relics of the old Castle of the Lords of Parthenay: ramparts dotted with towers, the bridge and the door of St. James, which form a picturesque scene with the peaceful river; Rue de la Vau Saint-Jacques, where the pilgrims used to stop, and its old half-timbered houses; the Romanesque gate of the Church of Our Lady of La Couldre; the gate to the Citadel, town as the Clock Tower, from the early 13th century...There are so many wonders to admire on a walk in the area!
The Georges Turpin Museum is all about the history and development of the town from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, and is based in the House of Local Cultures on Rue Vau Saint-Jacques. It contains archaeological collections (coins, stones), Parthenay earthenware from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, paintings, prints and photographs, as well as temporary exhibitions.
Every Wednesday morning, one of the biggest livestock markets in France takes place at Bellevue fairground, with the cattle market at 8 am and the sheep market at 9.30 am.
In July, the Parthenay International Fun Festival or FLIP (Festival Ludique International de Parthenay) takes place. This festive event features all kinds of games!
