Parthenay, Land of Art and History

The Parthenay region is classified as a "Land of Art and History." Parthenay still possesses remains of its old castle , some of whose towers have been restored, and of its medieval walls, the most remarkable element and symbol of the city being the "Saint-Jacques Gate." Another gate, known as the "Citadel Gate," houses the town clock. Parthenay once boasted numerous parish churches: Sainte-Croix, Saint-Laurent (still in use), Saint-Jacques, Saint-Paul, Saint-Pierre de Parthenay-le-Vieux, Notre-Dame-de-la-Couldre (converted and deconsecrated), Saint-Sépulcre, and Saint-Jean (no longer standing). Also noteworthy are the Chapel of the Rosary and the former Cordeliers convent, as well as, in the neighboring commune of Châtillon-sur-Thouet, the Church of Sainte-Catherine de la Maison-Dieu. The Rue de la Vau Saint-Jacques features a remarkable collection of half-timbered houses in the medieval style. Several events organized by the Association for the Preservation of the Vau Saint-Jacques District highlight this heritage: "From Cellars to Gardens" (during Heritage Days), the medieval market, etc.