Explore the south of France, the Pyrenees and northern Spain

Based in the south of France for 25 years, I am an author who specialises in history, landscapes and gastronomy on both sides of the Pyrenees.

There are three main ways to explore my website: (i) use the interactive map (ii) browse the list of selected articles (iii) choose a topic.

Clickable map of locations covered in articles by Colin Duncan Taylor.

The Midi is the southern part of France. As with most north-south divides, where it starts and where it ends is open to debate. Whatever its boundaries, the Midi can claim to have distinctive cultural, gastronomic and linguistic roots. READ MORE
The very name of this quaint little town sounds Moorish, and indeed, Alquézar is thought to derive from the Arabic word for fortress. Around 1067, Alquézar was captured by the king of Aragon and a medieval Christian town developed. Today, it is listed as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. READ MORE
The renowned architect made extensive use of concrete in many of his constructions, from the Sagrada Familia cathedral to the Parc Güell. It is, then, particularly apt that he also played a role in building Catalonia’s first Portland cement factory. READ MORE

BATTLE OF TOULOUSE 1814

Admire this 80-metre-long mural that commemorates a pointless and bloody battle between two old enemies.