Historically and architecturally there is much to see in the Languedoc.
The first evidence of settlement dates from Greek times. The name of the
town, Agde, is a Greek name. The Romans followed and settled in several
areas. The most visible presence can be found in Nimes, but there are
many areas in Languedoc that still have Roman remains, some very well
preserved.
The Languedoc developed in the Middle Ages, and many of the churches and
manor houses in the towns and villages of Languedoc Roussillon date from
that period. The 11th and 12th century saw the growth of the Cathar
religion, and a flourishing in trade. There are many well preserved
castles and churches dating from this period, though there are also many
ruins following the Catholic persecution of the Cathars at the beginning
of the 13th century.
The Languedoc boomed in the 19th century with the wine trade, and many
of the cities, Montpellier, Béziers and Sète, as examples, show fine
architecture in the Parisien style from the mid 1850's and on.
Geographically the Languedoc Roussillon region is also diverse. From the
beaches of the Mediterranean to the ski resorts of the Pyrenées and the
mountains of the Cévennes, this region really has something for
everyone. It is not surprising therefore that 14 million people visit
the region each year and four million of those are from overseas
countries.
The climate of the Languedoc region is also a great attraction. With
almost 300 days a year of sunshine, and rain concentrated in spring and
autumn, the Mediterranean climate is reliable. Summers are hot and dry,
with average daytime temperatures in the mid 30's centigrade, with
cooler nights. The low humidity (often only 40%) and prevailing breeze
keep the temperature pleasant. Spring and autumn weather is variable,
with heavy rainfall and flash flooding not uncommon. Winter is cold but
dry, with sunny days the norm. Daytime temperatures may be as much as
15C near the coast in winter, but can be much colder in the mountains,
where snow can fall.
