Entre hôpitaux et auberges. L’accueil du voyageur en Cévennes à la fin du Moyen Âge

A dense network of roadside hospitals and inns emerged in the Cévennes region by the late Middle Ages, adapting to shifting travel demands. Initially driven by pilgrimage traffic, these establishments transitioned to accommodate growing commercial activity after the 13th century. While monastic contributions were minimal, smaller, specialized hospitals—particularly those linked to the Puy hospital network—flourished along challenging routes. By the mid-14th century, a more commercialized system of rural inns replaced the hospitals, maintaining functional infrastructure for travelers. This shift reflects how medieval landscapes evolved to balance charitable and economic needs, with roadside hospitality serving as both a care hub and a nexus for trade.

Brechon, F. (2021). Entre hôpitaux et auberges. L’accueil du voyageur en Cévennes à la fin du Moyen Âge. Revue Historique, n° 697(1), 27–66. https://doi.org/10.3917/rhis.211.0027