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Sotheby's International Realty
- 32 rue des Frères Lion
- 31000 Toulouse, France
- +33 5 34 67 92 46
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- 38 rue Taillefer
- 24000 Périgueux, France
- +33 5 53 35 97 60
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Real estate in Midi-Pyrénées Region
Midi-Pyrénées: Between City and Countryside
Ideally located between the sea, the ocean, and the mountains, the Occitanie region, formerly Midi-Pyrénées, is renowned for its exceptional reputation. With its preserved landscapes, vast spaces, charming villages, and historical sites, as well as its rivers, canals, vineyards, and towns infused with the colours of the South, the region offers a true experience of discovery, exploration, and human connection. Famous for its convivial and heartfelt gastronomy, the region occupies a large part of the South-West of France. Occitanie comprises eight departments: Ariège, Aveyron, Haute-Garonne, Gers, Lot, Hautes-Pyrénées, Tarn, and Tarn-et-Garonne. It is the largest region in France, with an area larger than Belgium or Switzerland.
The Garonne is the main river, with five tributaries: the Gers, Ariège, Lot, Save, and Tarn. Two major mountain ranges dominate the region: the Pyrenees to the south and the Massif Central to the north-east.
The economy of Occitanie is largely driven by the urban hub of Toulouse, the regional capital, which has influence over neighbouring cities such as Carcassonne (in Languedoc-Roussillon), Albi, Montauban, and Tarbes. The aeronautics industry, led by Airbus, is the primary sector, with Toulouse being home to the world’s leading commercial aircraft manufacturer. The region is also the headquarters for Météo-France, the CNES, Airbus Defence and Space, and Thales Alenia Space, making it Europe’s leading space hub. Agriculture and agri-industries remain the largest employers. Toulouse also stands out for its thriving tertiary sector and leading research hubs, thanks to its three universities and numerous prestigious schools.
The region’s architecture is rich and diverse. Toulouse, known as the "Pink City," is a prime example, with its brick and Roman tile constructions dating back centuries. The historic centres of many other towns also boast rich heritage, reflecting key periods of urban development. The region is also known for its medieval villages and stone-built houses, characteristic of Gothic architecture.
As part of the territorial reform, Midi-Pyrénées merged with Languedoc-Roussillon, effective from 1 January 2016, creating the new region of Occitanie.