Rural town of Hérault, Nissan-lez-Enserune takes place near the Canal du Midi, in the attraction area of Béziers. It is located between the valleys of the Orb and the Aude, not far from Lespignan, Colombiers or Capestang.
Occupied since prehistoric times, the town developed in antiquity under the influence of the Romans. In the 12th century, the installation of a Commandery of the Order of the Templars nearby allowed Nissan-lez-Enserune to gain some importance. Plundered during the crusade against the Albigenses in the 13th century, it has experienced several attacks over the centuries. Having become an important stopover town in the 16th century, this town in the south-east of France also became the border between the Huguenot East and the Papist West.
Always mainly oriented towards viticulture, the commune of Nissan-lez-Enserune is also experiencing significant tourist activity today, particularly linked to the richness of its architectural heritage.
The richness of its religious heritage is one of the strengths of Nissan-lez-Enserune. Passing through the region, you can admire the Saint-Christol chapel, the last witness of a monastic establishment active until the 17th century. Restored at the end of the 20th century, it reveals in particular some parts of the 5th century as well as a beautiful portal decorated with 16th century columns.
Former church of the priory, the Saint-Saturnin church also deserves your full attention. Classified as Historic Monuments, it reveals in particular the tomb of the Priors in the choir, some vestiges of the priory in the courtyard of the presbytery, or even very beautiful works of art such as the baptismal font, a Visigothic altar table or a table of Carolingian Lobed Altar. The southeast wall of the transept also hosts a 14th century fresco of the Coronation of the Virgin.
A little further on, the Notre-Dame-de-la-Miséricorde chapel takes the form of a small oratory probably dating from the 5th century. Listed in the Historical Monuments, it is today the only vestige of the villa of Folpiano.
While strolling in the surroundings, you can discover the oppidum of Ensérune occupied from the 6th to the 1st century BC. In the center of the village, the Plo, a group of houses crossed by narrow streets bears witness to the aspect of the city in the Middle Ages. Many mills are also visible, including Tiquet and Balayé. The latter, restored at the end of the 20th century, is still used for special occasions.
The only vestige of the Templar commandery of Périès, the Sainte-Marie chapel reveals its few walls at 11 rue Frédéric Mistral.
To make the most of sunny days, it is possible to take the fitness trail in the garrigue, take the mill walk, stroll along the Canal du Midi or even rent a boat without a license on the canal.
The market is held on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturday mornings on the Place du Marché.
In May, place at Nissan celebrates Nature with many activities around fauna and flora.
In June, the town offers its annual festivals with concerts, flea markets, children's games and other festive events.
In mid-July, the national holiday is celebrated with a popular ball, petanque tournament or fireworks.
