Montpellier

Montpellier, originally called Monte Pestalario, is one of only a few larger cities in southern France that does not have roman roots. The city was not founded until the 10th century, and came to be one of the most important cities for its Aragonese (spanish) rulers. At the same time, the city’s reputation as a seat of learning was growing as it welcomed Jewish and Arab intellectuals. In 1289 Montpellier’s school of medicine and law gained university status. Famous alumni include the creator of prophecies Nostradamus and the author Rabelais.

The open-minded and liberal Montpellier was faced with several challenges over the next centuries. It was struck by the plague in the 1300s, and later became a stronghold for the French Protestants, the Huguenots. Until the revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1685, they fought a losing battle against the Catholic Church and the French crown. By the time these religious wars ended, all surviving Huguenots had either surrendered or fled to England, Ireland or America.

Today Montpellier is known for its university and a quarter of its citizens are students. The beautiful medieval area, “centre historique”, is a pedestrian haven with marbled alleys like L’Ancien Courrier. Low-set medieval buildings and churches adorn the area’s 16 squares, including the one in the city centre, Place de la Comédie.

The cuisine of the Languedoc region has much in common with Mediterranean cooking, including the best ingredients that land and sea have to offer. In Montpellier, the ties to Catalonia on the other side of the Spanish border are apparent in the size of the portions served. The city has the full range of dining options from luxury restaurants to rustic neighbourhood eateries.

Montpellier airport information

Montpellier Mediterranée Airport is located approximately 6 km from Montpellier city centre.

Montpellier airport by car
The airport is located in the Mauguio-Carnon municipality. Take the Montpellier-Est exit (exit n°29) from motorway A9.

Montpellier airport by coach
A shuttle service operated by Herault Transport connects the airport and Place de l’Europe. A one-way ticket costs €4.90.

Montpellier airport by taxi
The taxi rank is located near the exit (gate A) of the arrivals hall.

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