Perouges is a hilltop village in south east France about 20 miles northeast of Lyon. It was founded in the 12th century by Gallic farmers and linen weavers returning from Perugia in Italy. the town prospered through the middle ages with the population peaking at 1500 at the end of the 18th century. The 19th century brought modern roads and railways and the need for hilltop defensive positions had passed. Consequently the town slowly died falling into disrepair in the early 20th century. In some ways this allowed the town to survive intact as a medieval showpiece and now many of the buildings are occupied by artisans and restaurants and is almost fully restored.