LANTERN OF THE DEAD
If the lanterns are rare medieval monuments, of Perigourdine, Limousin or Poitevine tradition, this lantern of the dead is unique in the region. There are less than fifty of them left in France, and only the one in Moutiers is still in operation, and systematically lit for certain events: at each death in the commune, on All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. This religious monument, symbolizing the light of Christ, has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1913. The lantern of the dead is located on the site of the old cemetery, in the middle of the main square of the village. This tower is 7 metres high and 1.50 metres in circumference and has three small windows in its upper part, allowing the light from the lamp to be seen. In the past, the pilot light was powered by oil, today electricity has replaced it. The door at the bottom of the tower opens onto an eight-step staircase leading to the lantern itself. Outside this tower of the dead, an altar is dedicated to St. Joseph, patron saint of the Good Death.
Book the Best Activities with Get Your Guide
Members' reviews on LANTERN OF THE DEAD
