Small village of Anjou located only a few kilometres from the town of Saumur, Turquant surprises by its incredible troglodytic network, one of the most important in France. Today, it is craftsmen who have taken possession of these surprising cavities: sculptors, metalworkers, glassblowers and various creators are to be discovered in this charming village on the banks of the Loire.
In Turquant, it is especially important to take the time to walk or cycle to discover the village's heritage. Don't miss the Saint-Aubin church, built as early as the 12th century and recently renovated by a craftsman, and the many troglodytic dwellings that are sure to surprise you.
The village has a long history. It is first mentioned in a charter dating back to 1125, when the lord of the local parish was called "Turcham". Born from the tufa stone in which countless galleries have been dug, the architecture of the village is emblematic of its region.
In the heart of the rock, numerous seigneuries are to be discovered, such as the manor house of La Vignolle. Property of Jean de la Vignolle, President of the Chambre des Comptes d'Anjou, la Vignolle was home to Marguerite, daughter of King René and future Queen of England. Endowed with incredible outbuildings carved into the rock, this 15th century building is today a hotel in which it is particularly pleasant to stay.
In recent decades, some of these sites have been home to artists and craftsmen. In the summer, their workshops are open to the public so that these professionals can share their know-how. The professions of ceramist, foundryman, jewellery creator, gilder and painter-decorator are thus to be discovered in an unusual setting and a warm atmosphere.
A more traditional know-how is also honoured by this small town of character: that of the manufacture of the "pommes tapées". At the end of the 19th century, the town had more than 200 ovens. All of them were used to dry the apples produced in the neighbouring orchards and the production of this emblematic dish of the Saumur region replaced for a time the cultivation of vines, victim of the serious phylloxera crisis in the 1880s.
The village of Turquant is a key stage in the "Loire by bike" itinerary and is particularly surprising and exotic. Numerous signposted footpaths cross it and allow walkers to discover the rich troglodytic heritage of this commune, which allows the arts and crafts to shine in this inspiring region that is the Loire Valley.
Bérengère for Comme des Français
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