Toulouse is France's fourth largest town and the capital of the Midi-Pyrénées, or "pink city" as it is also called It boasts an incredible architectural wealth which bears witness to its long history. During the Renaissance period, Toulouse made its fortune thanks to the woad trade in particular. Colossal fortunes were made at the time, as illustrated by the sumptuous town houses that still stand today. Don't miss the "maison d'Assézat» which houses the Bemberg foundation and its collection of paintings. The building of the Canal du Midi during the 18th Century brought new opportunities to the town, thus strengthening its prosperity. The Capitole which houses today's Town Hall dates back to that period (1750).
The 19th Century industrial revolution rationalized the town's urban planning policy, thus facilitating its entry into the 20th century without spoiling the old town, which has been perfectly preserved.
The development of airmail at the beginning of the 20th Century and the first flights of Daurat, Mermoz, and St-Exupéry left their mark on the town so it seems only natural that Toulouse should have become the capital of the European aeronautical industry of which Airbus is one of the key figures. Make sure you find time to visit the "Cité de l'Espace" and the aerospace plants.
