Troubadours in the Languedoc

Troubadours. Wandering minstrels dating back to the 11th century in Languedoc and the South of France.They travelled many miles bringing news and spreading culture across the South of France and into Carcassonne.

Their main themes were chivalry and courtly love or "Fin Amor". Very often the Lady who the Troubadour "loved" was already married and usually to a noble man or even worse wedded to the Church. In some ways this brought romantic love into a Europe which was saddled with arranged marriages and the dictates of an overbearing church.

Songs and poetry were used to convey feelings and ideals. A very strong element was loving from afar. The idea of unrequited love and from this sprang all the tragedies and love stories which have delighted us since.

Troubadours are now forever linked to the Languedoc and the early flowering of the Cathar heresy.

Come and visit Carcassonneto learn more about it's fascinating history. The Holiday Cottageis ideally situated close to the centre of Carcassonne and makes a good base to explore the Languedoc.