Trip to Montpellier

Since Sunday, April 20, a group of AFSF members has been enjoying their time in the sunny south of France, more precisely, in the vibrant city of Montpellier.

During this immersive trip, participants are attending French classes in the mornings at the Alliance Française de Montpellier, and taking part in cultural and travel activities in the afternoons exploring Montpellier, Nîmes, Carcassonne, and indulging in delicious cheese and wine tastings.

In this article, we focus on the splendid city of Montpellier, giving you a glimpse into the experience.

A Brief History

Montpellier was born during the Middle Ages, a fact still visible in the architecture of its historic center. The city’s origins date back to 985.

It quickly gained prosperity through trade, especially maritime commerce, until growing competition with Marseille began to slow its activity. However, Montpellier continued to thrive intellectually, thanks to its prestigious Faculty of Medicine, the second-oldest medical school in Europe still in operation today.

In 1349, Montpellier officially joined the Kingdom of France under King Philippe VI, ending centuries of well-managed autonomy.

As an important center of Christianity, the city was deeply impacted by the Wars of Religion at the end of the 16th century. Known for its rebellious spirit, Montpellier faced royal repression and restructuring. This period marked a transformation in its architecture, with the rise of a more “royal” style, including the construction of a fortress and several elegant hôtels particuliers.

In the following centuries, Montpellier expanded in a new direction, becoming a hub for wine trading. This thriving industry enriched part of the population, who in turn transformed the city’s layout—introducing Parisian-style boulevards and grand squares, such as the Place de la Comédie, and building striking monuments like the Arc de Triomphe.

Must-See

- Arc de Triomphe (built in 1692)
- Faculté de Médecine
- Cathédrale Saint-Pierre
- Le Mikvé (13th-century Jewish ritual bath)
- L'Opéra Comédie (1888)
- Place Royale du Peyrou
- Musée Fabre

The best way to enjoy Montpellier is simply to stroll through the charming alleyways of the city center, day or night, and soak in its vibrant atmosphere.

Want to take part in our next trip?

Our next trip is planned for October 2025.
Follow us on social media, visit our website, or reach out to Cindy at cindy@afsf.com for more information.