Commune de Haute-Vienne, in region New-Aquitaine, Bessines-sur-Gartempe is located in the arrondissement of Bellac, about thirty kilometers from Limoges. It is also one of the most extensive cities in the whole department.
Originally called La Besse, Bessines-sur-Gartempe takes its name from the Latin Bettia and the Gallic Beta, which designate a place rich in birch. In the 6th century, during the Clovis period, the commune took its place on the frontier between the kingdom of the Franks and that of the Visigoths until about the 10th century. Known for its mining activity in the second half of the twentieth century, the municipality is today more oriented towards tourism.
In Bessines-sur-Gartempe there are a number of important tourist sites to discover during a stay in this region rich in cultural heritage.
A circuit of heritage, pedestrian and marked out, allows to discover the most beautiful sites of this commune of Haute-Vienne. Explanatory panels offer a detailed and very interesting description. Lovers will also be able to borrow the circuit of postcards and discover sixteen views of Bessines-sur-Gartempe through old postcards.
Inscribed in the Historic Monuments for its facade and its roofs, the church Saint-Léger dates from the XIIIe and XVe centuries. Inside, one can admire the chapel of the Lord of Monism, while outside, on the north wall, an engraved limestone stone reveals the symbol of the blessing hand.
The Pont des Bonshommes was built in the 13th century. Equipped with three arches and about ten meters long, it is used to cross the Gartempe. Partially destroyed in 1944, it was rebuilt shortly thereafter and was listed in Historic Monuments in the early 1990s.
It is possible to admire the ruins of the Monism Castle dating from the 13th and 15th centuries. Also listed in the Historical Monuments, they present the remains of the old castle of the municipality.
Interactive mine museum, the UREKA allows to discover the history of uranium in the region. On the program of the places, a park of machines, 3D projections, or even an interactive exploration of the interior of the earth.
Built in the 18th century, the cross of Morterolles was inscribed in the Historic Monuments.
The pond of Sagnat extends over more than twenty hectares and offers a pleasant place of relaxation to the inhabitants and the visitors of passage to Bessines-sur-Gartempe. There is a fishing area, playgrounds and picnic areas, as well as an arboricultural interpretation trail. It is also possible to swim from early July to mid-August. A sports circuit and a boules pitch complete the whole.
The market is held on Friday and Sunday morning. On the 11th of each month, in the morning, the city also offers its monthly fair.
The Suzanne Valadon Days, in honor of the painter from the city, are held on the first weekend of April, every two years.
In mid-July, Bandafolie's is a lively festival featuring a petanque contest, concerts, fireworks, flea markets and shopping.
In June, the Graine de Rue festival highlights various street arts shows.
A funfair takes place in October.
Moment Entre Soleil et Pleine Lune
- On 23 may 2024
- Lac de Sagnat
- An early evening on the theme of sharing a sunset. A time of exchange and conversation over a Spanish-style snack. Relaxation with a sound bath using the Full Moon bowl. Filled with lunar energies, it is most powerful on full-moon days.
Marché Hebdomadaire du Vendredi
- On 24 may 2024
- Place Saint-Léger
- Local producers meet on the pretty little church square, which is always bustling with activity on market day.
Loto - Club 3ème âge Morterolles
- On 26 may 2024
- Salle des fêtes Morterolles
- Lotto and bingo game. Many prizes.
Concours de Pétanque - Club de Pétanque
- On 26 may 2024
- 2 Avenue Jean Jaurès, Stade Welsch
- Registration from 1pm. Doubles, 4 games. 10 ? per team. Open to all.
Marché Hebdomadaire du Dimanche
- On 26 may 2024
- Place Saint-Léger
- Come and fill your baskets with good produce from local producers.
Marché Hebdomadaire du Vendredi
- On 31 may 2024
- Place Saint-Léger
- Local producers meet on the pretty little church square, which is always bustling with activity on market day.
Balade Bien-Être au fil de l'eau
- On 1 june 2024
- Place du Champ de Foire
- Come and recharge your batteries in nature, with a stroll along the banks of the Gartempe River to the sound of lapping water. A time for talking and sharing over a sweet break. Relax with a sound drum bath to reconnect with nature, a journey to welcome the calm within you.
Marché Hebdomadaire du Dimanche
- On 2 june 2024
- Place Saint-Léger
- Come and fill your baskets with good produce from local producers.
Rhand dit cap – Marchons Tous Ensemble
- On 6 june 2024
- 2 Avenue Jean Jaurès, Stade Welsch
- Walks of 3.5 or 8 km, mainly for disabled people. Bring your own picnic for a convivial time. In collaboration with Bessines en Marche.
Marché Hebdomadaire du Vendredi
- On 7 june 2024
- Place Saint-Léger
- Local producers meet on the pretty little church square, which is always bustling with activity on market day.
Lake Saint-Pardoux (fishing, swimming, boating, horseback riding, hiking).
