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A remarkable priory in La Riche, a place steeped in meaning and history, ideal for contemplation and aesthetic itineraries.
It's no coincidence that Ronsard spent the rest of his life at Saint-Cosme priory. The Renaissance poet found here more than a home: a place steeped in meaning and history, conducive to contemplation and aesthetic itineraries. He is buried in the remains of the former church. Visitors can now discover his home and its history, through a new interactive scenographic tour. Listening to poems, projections, books and games all help to restore his historical, spiritual and poetic dimension.
In the 12th century, the canons who lived there considered the gardens to be a "paradise on earth". The former monastery has forgotten nothing of this history. Over the centuries, it has preserved its spiritual dimension, and today offers a wide range of visitor itineraries linking different eras and disciplines through the prism of architecture, poetry and contemporary art. The latter is reflected in numerous thematic exhibitions, such as in the refectory, where exhibitions by leading contemporary artists are held every year. The fabulous work of painter Zao Wou-Ki, who has created fourteen original, deliberately sober stained-glass windows in Chinese ink, is particularly noteworthy. The "Prieuré de Saint-Cosme - Demeure de Ronsard", just five minutes from the center of Tours, is a timeless place whose forms never cease to renew themselves.
Soigner Corps et Âmes" exhibition from June 14 to October 12, 2025
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Opening time and information on SAINT COSME PRIORY
Quality Tourism. Open all year round. Closed on December 25 and January 1. Closed Tuesdays from October 15 to March 31. january 2 - March 31: 10 am - 12:30 pm / 2 pm - 5 pm (closed Tuesdays) April 1 - May 31: 10 am - 6 pm June 1 - August 31: 10 am - 7 pm (closed Tuesdays) September 1 - October 31: 10 am - 6 pm (closed Tuesdays) November 1 - December 31: 10 am - 12:30 pm. Free admission for children under 6. Adults: €7.50. Children (aged 7 to 18): €6.50. Vacation vouchers. Guided tour (store / beverage sales). Gift store.
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Saint-Cosme Priory
"Riddles at Ronsard's": a treasure hunt designed for adults!
To complement the game "Plume, où es-tu?" reserved for children aged 6 to 9 since 2016, the Priory now offers adults the chance to discover where Ronsard spent the last 20 years of his life in a fun and friendly way! Equipped with a map, a compass and game cards, visitors must solve 7 riddles as they wander through the kitchens, the library, the well and the garden to track down the slightest clue about the sculptures, the large trees, or the old stones!
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Members' reviews on SAINT COSME PRIORY
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