# Castelnau-de-Montmiral

> commune in Tarn, France

**Wikidata**: [Q829796](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q829796)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castelnau-de-Montmiral)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/castelnau-de-montmiral

## Summary
Castelnau-de-Montmiral is a historic commune located in the Tarn department of France, within the Occitanie region. Founded in the early 13th century, it is renowned for its medieval architecture and is designated as one of *The Most Beautiful Villages of France*.

## Key Facts
- **Type**: Commune (municipality) in France.
- **Location**: Tarn department, Occitanie region, France.
- **Coordinates**: 43.9656°N, 1.8208°E.
- **Inception**: Founded in 1201.
- **Population**: 1,029 (latest data).
- **Administrative Division**: Part of the canton of Castelnau-de-Montmiral and the arrondissement of Albi.
- **Designation**: Member of *The Most Beautiful Villages of France* (since 1982).
- **Website**: [castelnaudemontmiral.com](https://castelnaudemontmiral.com/).

## FAQs
**Where is Castelnau-de-Montmiral located?**
Castelnau-de-Montmiral is situated in the Tarn department of southern France, within the Occitanie region. It lies approximately 25 km northeast of Albi and is part of the arrondissement of Albi.

**When was Castelnau-de-Montmiral founded?**
The commune was established in 1201, making it over 800 years old. Its medieval origins are reflected in its well-preserved architecture and historic charm.

**What is the population of Castelnau-de-Montmiral?**
As of recent data, the population is 1,029 residents. Historical records show fluctuations, with past counts including 957, 1,044, and 1,062 inhabitants.

**Why is Castelnau-de-Montmiral notable?**
It is recognized as one of *The Most Beautiful Villages of France*, a prestigious association highlighting exceptional rural heritage sites. The village is celebrated for its medieval streets, stone houses, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

**What administrative divisions is Castelnau-de-Montmiral part of?**
The commune belongs to the canton of Castelnau-de-Montmiral and the arrondissement of Albi, both within the Tarn department. It is also part of the broader Occitanie region.

## Why It Matters
Castelnau-de-Montmiral serves as a living testament to medieval Occitan heritage, preserving architectural and cultural traditions that date back to the 13th century. Its inclusion in *The Most Beautiful Villages of France* underscores its significance as a model of rural conservation and sustainable tourism. The village contributes to the cultural identity of the Tarn department and attracts visitors seeking authentic historical experiences. Additionally, its small-scale governance and community life offer insights into the enduring structure of French communes, which have been a cornerstone of local administration since the French Revolution.

## Notable For
- **Medieval Architecture**: Features well-preserved stone buildings, narrow streets, and a historic church typical of southern French villages.
- **Designation as a Beautiful Village**: Officially recognized by *The Most Beautiful Villages of France* (founded 1982), a mark of exceptional heritage value.
- **Historic Founding**: Established in 1201, reflecting over eight centuries of continuous habitation.
- **Scenic Location**: Perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the Tarn countryside.
- **Cultural Tourism**: A destination for heritage tourism, contributing to the local economy and regional identity.

## Body

### History and Founding
Castelnau-de-Montmiral was founded in 1201, during a period of feudal expansion in southern France. The name *Castelnau* (meaning "new castle") suggests its origins as a fortified settlement, likely established to control trade routes or defend territorial claims. The addition of *de-Montmiral* refers to its strategic hilltop location, which provided defensive advantages and visibility over the surrounding landscape.

### Geography and Location
The commune is located in the Tarn department of the Occitanie region, in southern France. Its coordinates are 43.9656°N latitude and 1.8208°E longitude. The village is situated approximately 25 kilometers northeast of Albi, the departmental capital, and is part of the arrondissement of Albi. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills and agricultural land, typical of the region.

### Administrative Structure
Castelnau-de-Montmiral is governed as a commune, the smallest administrative division in France. It falls under the canton of Castelnau-de-Montmiral and the arrondissement of Albi. The commune system, introduced during the French Revolution in 1789, grants local autonomy in managing municipal affairs, including urban planning, education, and cultural heritage preservation.

### Demographics
The population of Castelnau-de-Montmiral has remained relatively stable in recent years, with recorded figures including:
- 1,029 (latest data)
- 957 (earlier count)
- 1,044, 1,062, 1,033, 1,027, 1,041, 1,046, 1,050, 1,055, and 1,062 (historical fluctuations).

The small population size is characteristic of rural French communes, where community life revolves around local traditions and agricultural activities.

### Cultural Significance
Castelnau-de-Montmiral is a member of *The Most Beautiful Villages of France* (*Les Plus Beaux Villages de France*), an association founded on March 6, 1982, to promote and preserve exceptional rural heritage. This designation highlights the village’s architectural unity, historical authenticity, and scenic beauty. Key features include:
- **Medieval Streets**: Cobblestone paths and arched doorways typical of 13th-century settlements.
- **Stone Houses**: Traditional Occitan construction using local limestone.
- **Church of Saint-Blaise**: A historic religious site reflecting Gothic and Romanesque influences.
- **Panoramic Views**: The hilltop location provides sweeping vistas of the Tarn valley.

### Tourism and Economy
Tourism plays a vital role in the local economy, with visitors drawn to the village’s historic charm and cultural events. The commune’s inclusion in *The Most Beautiful Villages of France* enhances its visibility, attracting both domestic and international tourists. Local businesses, including artisan shops, cafés, and guesthouses, cater to visitors while preserving the village’s authentic character.

### Related Entities
- **Tarn Department**: Created on March 4, 1790, during the French Revolution, Tarn is known for its diverse landscapes, including the Sidobre granite plateau and the Gorges du Tarn.
- **Arrondissement of Albi**: An administrative division overseeing multiple cantons, including Castelnau-de-Montmiral. Albi is renowned for its UNESCO-listed Episcopal City and the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum.
- **The Most Beautiful Villages of France**: A non-profit association headquartered in Collonges-la-Rouge, dedicated to safeguarding France’s rural heritage. Membership requires adherence to strict preservation criteria.

### Infrastructure and Accessibility
The village is accessible by road, with connections to Albi and other regional centers. Public transportation options are limited, reflecting its rural setting. The commune’s website ([castelnaudemontmiral.com](https://castelnaudemontmiral.com/)) provides information for visitors, including accommodations, events, and historical details.

### Preservation and Challenges
As a designated beautiful village, Castelnau-de-Montmiral faces the dual challenge of preserving its heritage while accommodating modern needs. Efforts include:
- **Restoration Projects**: Maintaining medieval structures and public spaces.
- **Sustainable Tourism**: Balancing visitor numbers with environmental and cultural sustainability.
- **Community Engagement**: Involving residents in heritage conservation and local governance.

### Comparative Context
Unlike larger French cities, Castelnau-de-Montmiral exemplifies the enduring appeal of small-scale, historically rich communities. Its preservation contrasts with urbanization trends, offering a model for rural revitalization through heritage tourism. The village’s story is intertwined with broader themes of Occitan identity, medieval history, and the evolution of French local governance.

## References

1. BnF authorities
2. Virtual International Authority File
3. dataset of postal codes in France. 2018
4. INSEE code
5. répertoire géographique des communes
6. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
7. Annuaire de service-public.fr
8. Recensement de la population 2015. National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies. 2017
9. Populations légales 2016
10. Populations légales 2017
11. Populations légales 2018
12. Populations légales 2019
13. Populations légales 2020
14. Populations légales 2021
15. Populations de référence 2022
16. Populations de référence 2023
17. [Code officiel géographique](https://www.insee.fr/fr/information/3363419)
18. National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies
19. GeoNames
20. [répertoire géographique des communes. 2015](https://wxs-telechargement.ign.fr/83edtfdyqte031y0ra49d2e3/telechargement/inspire/RGC-2015-01$RGC2015/file/RGC2015.7z)
21. [2016](https://data.geopf.fr/telechargement/download/GEOFLA/GEOFLA_2-2_COMMUNE_SHP_LAMB93_FXX_2016-06-28/GEOFLA_2-2_COMMUNE_SHP_LAMB93_FXX_2016-06-28.7z)
22. [Code officiel géographique. 2020](https://www.data.gouv.fr/fr/datasets/r/8442dfae-a878-49c6-be4c-20689b1c337c)
23. [Code officiel géographique. 2017](https://www.insee.fr/fr/information/2560698)