Montpellier's combination of historical legacy, vibrant cultural scene, and focus on innovation aligns perfectly with Louisville’s values and goals. This partnership helps both cities build meaningful, long-lasting connections and inspires collaboration on various fronts, including the arts, education, and business.

In embracing Montpellier as a sister city, Louisville celebrates a global outlook, strengthening its ties with the world and fostering a shared appreciation for cultural diversity.

City (2020): 299,096

Metropolitan Area (2020): 813,272

Students make up 1/3 of the city’s population

Montpellier has a long-standing reputation as a center of learning and innovation. 

Founded in 1289, the University of Montpellier is one of the oldest in the world, with particular strengths in medicine and research. 

Faculte de Medecine: the oldest medical school in the western world

Founded in 985 AD when residents of Maguelonne were pushed inland by pirate raids

Originally part of the Gilhem feudal dynasty

Large hub for protestants after the Reformation

Invaded and claimed by King Louis XIII in 1622

The city is known for making violins

Montpellier is only about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the Mediterranean Sea, making it a perfect destination for those who love both city life and the beach.

The city’s tram system is famous for its artistic flair. Each line features uniquely designed trams, some decorated by renowned designers like Christian Lacroix.

Montpellier is home to one of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Montpellier, founded in 1220. Its medical school is particularly renowned and has been in continuous operation for over 800 years.

The medieval Place de la Comédie in the city center is a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, with bustling cafes, street performers, and the historic Opera Comédie. 

Montpellier’s Fabre Museum, a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts, houses an impressive collection of European art spanning from the Renaissance to modern times.

Montpellier is known for its lively arts scene, with year-round events celebrating everything from music and theater to dance and contemporary art. 

The city’s annual Festival de Radio France et Montpellier, held each July, is one of the most prominent classical music festivals in Europe, drawing world-renowned artists and thousands of visitors to its performances. 

The Festival International Montpellier Danse is another prestigious event, showcasing contemporary dance talent from across the globe.

Les Estivales: Wine tasting, market, and musical event that occurs every Friday from June to September (seems like a large scale Waterfront Wednesday)

Aqueduc Saint Germain: large aqueduct that runs through the middle of the city

Mediterranean climate, with cool, damp winters, and hot, rather dry summers. 

The monthly mean ranges from 7.2 °C (45.0 °F) in January to 24.1 °C (75.4 °F) in July. 

Precipitation is around 630 millimetres (24.8 in), and is greatest in fall and winter, but not absent in summer, either. 

Extreme temperatures have ranged from −17.8 °C (−0.04 °F) recorded on 5 February 1963 and up to 43.5 °C (110.3 °F) on 28 June 2019.

Grisettes de Montpellier: honey and licorice candy

Les Grès de Montpellier: signature red wine

Coteaux du Languedoc AOC wines: wine from the largest vineyard in France

Today, the city continues to be a hub for scientific research and higher education, contributing significantly to advancements in medicine, agriculture, and environmental studies.

Since 1955, Louisville has shared a vibrant sister-city relationship with Montpellier, France, fostering a strong cultural and educational exchange across the Atlantic. 

Situated in the sunny south of France, Montpellier boasts a unique blend of Mediterranean charm, rich history, and a reputation for cultural and scientific innovation, making it a fitting partner for Louisville’s forward-thinking community.

Through exchange programs, Louisville and Montpellier offer residents and students a chance to explore each other’s cultures and languages. These programs enrich both cities, providing opportunities for students, artists, and professionals to learn from one another and bring new ideas and experiences back home. This is a year-long exchange program through UofL (scholarship provided by the University of Montpellier).

Montpellier gifted Louisville with the statue of King Louis XVI that stands outside city hall in 1967.