Founded in the 10th century, Montpellier quickly established itself as a leading commercial city, thanks to its ideal geographical location just a few kilometers from the Mediterranean. Contrairement à d’autres cités historiques de la région, Montpellier did not develop around an ancient site, but rather around a desire to become a trading center, particularly active in the exchange of textiles, spices and wine.
In the 12th century, the city already boasted the oldest medical school in Europe, founded in 1220. Over the centuries, Montpellier has become a intellectual and artistic crossroadsThis legacy continues today through the university and the many cultural events that punctuate local life. Today, this heritage continues to manifest itself through the university and the many cultural events that punctuate local life.
During the Middle Ages city of Montpellier developed under the influence of the lords of Guilhem, then came under the control of the kings of Aragon before becoming part of the Kingdom of France in 1349. Montpellier then became a royal city and experienced considerable growth during the Renaissance, when its greatest monuments were built, such as the Saint-Pierre cathedral and the Promenade du Peyrou.