Splendors of Romanesque art

From the town of Saint-Lizier to the Abbey of Combelongue, a Romanesque art circuit in the heart of the Ariège Pyrenees Regional Natural Park.

TODAY'S PROGRAM

9:30 a.m. - Guided tour of the Romanesque complex and the 18th century pharmacy in Saint-Lizier
The magnificent Saint-Lizier Cathedral, decorated with one of the finest collections of Romanesque frescoes in the French Pyrenees, is flanked by the only Romanesque cloister still standing in Ariège. You will also have the opportunity to admire the Bishops' Treasury, some of whose pieces date back to the 10th century!
Continue into the old 18th-century pharmacy, preserved in its original state, from surgical tools to earthenware, glassware, and remedies with curious names. Listen to Dimitri tell you about the evolution of medical practices over the centuries, from dog oil to today's paracetamol!

10:45 p.m. - Guided tour of the Bishops' Palace
The Bishops' Palace, which has served as a bishopric, a prison, and a lunatic asylum, will also reveal the history of Couserans and the site's evolution thanks to a brand-new museum. Then look up and admire the superb Renaissance paintings of the Notre-Dame-de-la-Sède Cathedral. You'll then understand its nickname, the "Sistine Chapel of Ariège"!

12:30 p.m. - Lunch at the “Côté Jardin” restaurant offering a beautiful view of the Pyrenean peaks in Lorp-Sentaraille
In this traditional family restaurant you will enjoy generous cuisine that showcases the land and local producers while respecting the seasons.

14:30 p.m. - Guided tour of Combelongue Abbey and its gardens, founded in 1138 in Rimont
Its early Romanesque and Mudéjar architecture is unique in Ariège. You will be welcomed by its passionate owner, who will tell you the history of the place. Stroll freely through the park, labeled "remarkable garden," where a more than peaceful atmosphere reigns. You will stroll through the ages, from the medieval garden to the contemporary French garden.

Optional: End the day with a visit to the Grenier à Jambon workshop followed by a tasting of their award-winning charcuterie specialties from the Salon de l'Agriculture!

Working Languages

• French

Price given for information purposes only, based on 25 people.
All offers are subject to availability and price change at the time of booking.

The price does not include

Transportation, personal expenses, tasting, processing fees.

The price includes

Guided tours and entrance fees to the monuments mentioned in the program; lunch formula.