Mende, prefecture of Lozère
Mende is a rural city-prefecture, characterized by the beauty of its historic center, the splendor of its flamboyant cathedral but also the sweetness of life in this small town in the countryside.
Above the city, the Causse de Mende is the playground of Mendois for the many nature activities that can be practiced there. Its location, within an exceptional and preserved territory, a real wonderland, allows visitors to be welcomed in the best conditions. The city of Mende is one of the gateways to the Causses and Cévennes territory, classified as a cultural and natural world heritage site by UNESCO in 2011.
Gevaudan Museum
The city of Mende has a rich and varied cultural heritage, including collections ranging from prehistory to the present day. In the wake of an ancient museum history, the new establishment, labeled "Musée de France", will open its doors at the end of 2022. Spread over nearly 1,200 m2, the project is part of a policy of sustainable and territorial development.
Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Privat Cathedral
Wanted by Pope Urban V, its construction began in 1368 and was consecrated a century later. It houses the clapper of the Non-Pareille, which was in its time (1517-1579) the largest bell in Christendom, as well as a sculpted Black Madonna, present since the 13th century. Partly destroyed during the Wars of Religion in 1581, the cathedral was rebuilt from 1598 to 1620.
Notre Dame Bridge
Dating from the 13th century, this bridge with three arches was for a long time the only stone bridge in the town of Mende. It spans the Lot, which has its source about thirty kilometers upstream. This bridge has been classified as a historic monument since 1889. Its vault measures 22 meters wide and 7 meters high.
Communication department of the City of Mende
