COLLEGIATE CHURCH OF SAINT-PIERRE DE LA ROMIEU

This splendid collegiate church (listed as a Unesco World Heritage site) is undoubtedly one of the finest buildings in the Gers. Its ^14th-century square and octagonal towers impose their solemnity right in the center of the village. The architectural ensemble is the brainchild of Arnaud d'Aux, a local boy and son of a wealthy lord, who became a highly influential cardinal in the papal court of Clement V (based in Avignon). In 1314, while private consul to King Edward II of England, he undertook the construction of this heritage gem. A cloister, featuring carved Romanesque capitals, was added in 1320.

The entrance (on the north side of the building) used to provide direct access. Today, access is via the tourist office. A breathtaking view awaits you, a timeless journey through Southern Gothic and preserved solemnity. The arches, sculptures, painted walls and vaulted ceilings of the single-nave church, the climb to the bell tower and its two octagonal towers (one of which contains a secret passage with a double spiral staircase), are all absolutely masterly. On the upper floors, you can admire the frescoes in the sacristy, which have been restored and made accessible (until now, they were visible behind a grille). The parapet walk and gardens remain mysterious, filled with an aura of history that makes you shudder. The view from the summit takes you to an endless horizon.