SAINT-ROBERT ABBEY-CHURCH

It was founded by Robert de Turlande, canon in Brioude, on his return from pilgrimage to Italy in 1043. It took the title of abbey ten years later. In 1168, it had nine abbeys, two monasteries of nuns and three hundred priories. The monks left the place during the Revolution, the last prior was chosen as mayor. The brothers of Saint John have been present since 1984. They are the ones who provide the guided tours. The abbey, which appears severe, impresses by its imposing dimensions: 76 metres long and 24 metres wide. The famous painting known as the Macabre Dance is also one of these wonders. The tomb of Clement VI stands in the middle. In the Treasury rooms, which occupy the former monks' library, tapestries (including that of the Crucifixion) are on display, as well as various liturgical objects and a model of the abbey in the 17th century.