Montpellier is a town in southern France, the main administrative centre of the Languedoc-Roussillon region and the Hérault department. It is situated on the river Lez, 10 km from the Mediterranean coast, in a pleasant hilly area. Montpellier was founded in the 11th century and very soon afterwards became an important commercial centre, where a medical university was established in 1220. Between the 17th and 19th centuries, Montpellier grew a lot and developed a powerful industrial base.
Montpellier is a university town full of life, attracting many tourists with its mild climate and charming beaches. The face of the city is its thriving urban suburbs, modern architecture and new infrastructure. But behind this façade is nestled a wonderful old town. The 14th-century Saint-Pierre Cathedral, rising above a maze of picturesque medieval streets, can be seen here.
In addition, many beautiful churches, secluded squares, private homes and intriguing courtyards can be explored in Montpellier's old quarter. Descending the rue de Foch, one comes to the magnificent triumphal arch of 1691 - the Porte de Peyroux.
There are two major pedestrian areas in Montpellier, the Place de la Comédie and the leaf-like Esplanade Charles de Gaulle. They are lined with an amazing array of cafes, street artists and bustling markets.
Montpellier also has some good museums - the Musée Fabre, the Atger medical collection at the medical college, and the Musée du Vieux Montpellier, which is dedicated to traditional crafts, costumes and homewares.
Impressive is the Jardin de Plan, one of Europe's oldest botanical gardens. In no way inferior to it is the attractive fountain "The Three Graces", whose waters splash in front of the opera house.

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Rating 5 from 1 voted Montpellier, France