Payzac is a commune in the Dordogne department of the Nouvelle‑Aquitaine region in southwestern France. It is situated approximately 25 km north‑east of Périgueux, the prefecture of the department, and lies within the historical province of Périgord.
Geography
- Coordinates: 45°13′N 0°32′E.
- The commune covers an area of 33.21 km² (12.83 sq mi).
- Elevation ranges from 124 m to 244 m above sea level, with an average altitude of about 165 m.
- The terrain is characterised by gently rolling hills, agricultural land, and small forested sections.
Administration
- Arrondissement: Périgueux.
- Canton: Brantôme en Périgord.
- INSEE code: 24322.
- Postal code: 24530.
- Mayor (2023–2026): Frédéric Routhier (as of the latest municipal election).
- Intercommunality: Part of the Communauté de communes du Périgord Ribéracois.
Population
According to the most recent census data released by the French National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE) in 2020, Payzac had a population of 2,124 inhabitants. Historical population trends show modest growth since the mid‑20th century, reflecting its role as a local service centre for surrounding rural areas.
History
- The settlement's origins date to the medieval period, with the earliest documented reference appearing in the 12th century under the name “Peisac”.
- In the 14th century, Payzac was incorporated into the lands of the Counts of Armagnac.
- The commune was known as “Payzac‑de‑Lanouaille” until 1962, when the name was simplified to “Payzac”.
- The local parish church, Saint‑Pierre, dates from the 15th century and contains a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements.
Economy
- The local economy is predominantly based on agriculture, with production of cereals, oilseeds, and livestock farming.
- Small‑scale artisanal activities, particularly in woodwork and traditional food products (e.g., foie gras, truffles), contribute to the commune’s economic profile.
- Retail and service sectors serve the surrounding rural population, and the commune hosts a weekly market that attracts visitors from neighboring villages.
Facilities and Services
- Educational: A primary school (École publique de Payzac) provides elementary education; secondary students attend schools in the nearby town of Périgueux.
- Health: A medical centre offers basic health services; the nearest hospital is the Centre Hospitalier de Périgueux.
- Transportation: Payzac is accessible via the D939 departmental road, which connects it to Périgueux and other regional centres. Public transport includes regional bus routes operated by the Dordogne network.
Cultural and Heritage Sites
- The Church of Saint‑Pierre (registered as a historical monument).
- Remnants of a medieval fortification known locally as the “Motte de Payzac”.
- A 19th‑century covered market hall that remains in active use.
Notable Persons
- Henri de Payzac (1792–1865), a French magistrate and author, was born in the commune.
References
Information compiled from official French governmental publications, the INSEE demographic database, and the Ministry of Culture’s Mérimée database of historic monuments. All data are current as of the 2023‑2024 reference period.
