Brive-la-Gaillarde is the biggest commune of the Correze department, in the
Limousin region, in south central France. It lies on the Correze River, west of the Massif Central.
Rock caves show evidence of prehistoric occupation and stone monuments indicate later inhabitation. The town was first known as the Roman, Briva Curretiae (“Corrèze Bridge”). In the Middle Ages it was the capital of lower Limousin. The original city grew around the Church of Saint-Martin, and in the 12th century walls were built around the city.
The commune was known as Brive until it was renamed
Brive-la-Gaillarde in 1919. Gaillarde means bravery or strength and perhaps refers to the city walls. The town is protected by two sets of walls.
Places to see include: the Musee Labenche,sited in the 16th century Hotel de Labenche, The Maison Denoix, the oldest liquor distillery in France, famed for its walnut liqueur, La Suprême Denoix”, the Church of Saint-Martin, housing the remains of the Martyred spaniard who introduced Christianity to Pagan Brive, and the Centre National De La Resistance, a museum dedicated to the resistance leader Edmond Michelet.
Today
Brive-la-Gaillarde is a delightful small town with a bustling atmosphere. Its’ historic medieval centre within the walls is built from pale local stone and has a pedestrian shopping area, with lively restaurants, bars and cafes. Relatively tourist-free,
Brive is a vibrant place with a peaceful heart.
Brive-la-Gaillarde is a market town, very proud of the regions reputation for gastronomy and the best regional produce. Four times a year from December to February
Brive hosts La Fois Grasse, a market showcasing the delicacies which have made Brive famous, especially geese, ducks truffles, chocolate and Foie Gras. There are also weekly markets including a flower market.
Brive-la-Gaillarde has much to interest visitors but is also ideally situated for those wishing to explore the ancient villages of
Limousin.
