Quercy

Quercy is a historical and cultural region in southwestern France. It lies mainly in the modern departments of Lot and Tarn-et-Garonne, with smaller extensions into adjacent areas. The name derives from the Latin quercus, meaning oak, a reference to the oak forests once extensive in the area.

Geography and landscape: Quercy is notable for its limestone plateaus, known as causses, and for deep river valleys formed by the Lot and its tributaries. The Causses du Quercy feature broad, rugged uplands, while Quercy Blanc refers to areas of pale limestone. The region also encompasses notable caves and scenic gorges, including the Padirac system, a popular underground site.

History and culture: In antiquity the Cadurci Gauls inhabited the territory, and Cahors (ancient Divona) developed as a major Roman town. During the Middle Ages Quercy was a province of the Crown of France and a border zone between Occitan and northern domains. Its towns—such as Cahors, Figeac, Gourdon, and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie—retain medieval architecture, and Rocamadour is a renowned pilgrimage site perched along the Lot valley.

Economy and heritage: The region is associated with Cahors wine, produced mainly from Malbec grapes, and with regional gastronomy that includes duck and goose products such as foie gras. Tourism centers on historic towns, scenic landscapes, and natural attractions like caves and viewpoints along the Lot valley.

Administrative status: Since the French Revolution, Quercy has not been an official administrative unit. Today the area is part of the Occitanie region and is recognized primarily for its historical, cultural, and touristic significance.