La Ville Rose

Toulouse has always been open to outside influences and cultures. The 2,000-year-old city shows itself in an architecture of brick and tiles that is typical for the cities, villages and farms of the Midi-Pyrenees region. The city’s colour is very special. Reflections of the light on the brick of Toulouse have given it the name ‘Ville Rose.’ This very special colouring confers an atmosphere on the city that is at once gentle and warm.

History
About 2,000 years ago Toulouse was founded by the Celtics, who settled on the last crossing of the Garonne before the Ocean. Later, the Romans occupied the city and called it Tolosa.
Finally, the Catholics reconquered Toulouse. They built churches and a university. In 1444, the first provincial parliament was founded and its representatives were given the power to govern the city. The city continued to develop as a result of the pastel trade in particular.
The French Revolution marked the end of parliamentary power. It was transformed and embellished to give it its current appearance.
The 20th Century saw the arrival of the great aeronautics companies. Toulouse soon forged an identity based on aeronautics and space.

Highlights
From the Garonne to the Canal du Midi, from Saint Sernin to the Cité de l'espace, from art of the antiquity to modern art, from Romanesque art treasures to impressionist masterpieces, from Ancient Egypt to the stars, Toulouse is home to some vital collections.

Gastronomy
In Toulouse, gastronomy is part of the lifestyle. Eating well is of the utmost importance! One of the specialty of the region is the traditional 'cassoulet'.

Hotels
You can easily book your hotel accommodation in Toulouse online. In close consultation with the organisation, Reserv'Hotel has taken options on various hotels in Toulouse. To make an online hotel reservation please go to Hotel reservation.

For more touristic information on Toulouse, visit the website of the Tourist office Toulouse