The most beautiful churches cathedrals basilicas and chapels Languedoc Roussillon

Between the pond of Prévost and the sea, stands the cathedral of Maguelone. This Romanesque building was the seat of the bishopric of Montpellier from the^5th to the 11th century. The original monument was destroyed after its reconquest from the Saracens but rebuilt in the early 12th century. In the 13th century, at its peak, the building became a cathedral-fortress, seat of the bishopric of Maguelone and bastion of the papacy in Languedoc. Recently, the cathedral has been adorned with stained glass windows in a refined style. At the first visit, the site is breathtaking. Indeed, the peninsula dominates the whole of a natural site surrounded by vineyards on one side and water on the other. It is a real impression of the end of the world and isolation conducive to a change of scenery since you can also walk in an exotic garden. Another surprising fact that makes this place quite magical and out of time: we first hear a strange cry, mournful or joyful, before realizing the presence of peacocks. These masters of the place seem to take their role of protectors of the cathedral very seriously. The site has been developed for 50 years by the association "Les Compagnons de Maguelone", an establishment of service and assistance through work. Since 1969, it has been helping disabled people to reintegrate professionally by offering them activities and accommodation, thus perpetuating the tradition of hospitality of this unique place. The domain hosts exhibitions and concerts, notably during the Festival of Ancient Music every year in June.

In the heart of a forest of holm oaks, perched on a rocky spur overlooking the Aspres massif, this small church was built at the end of the 11th century by local peasants. The richness of the interior of the priory is dazzling. The capitals and the Romanesque sculptures in pink marble from Villefranche-de-Conflent illustrate the religious art of the 10th and 12th centuries in the Roussillon region. The details abound: stylized mythological animals, griffins, lions, snakes, eagles with spread wings and a whole flora, roses and acanthus leaves. Particularly remarkable, the tribune is considered to be the finest example of Romanesque sculpture in the Catalan region. The marble of the Conflent, contributes to magnify this unsigned masterpiece realized around 1150. It divides the nave in two parts, one reserved for the canons, the other accessible to the faithful. The platform with its incomplete balustrade housed the choir. A botanical garden has been laid out around the priory on about fifty hectares, inviting you to discover its scents. The surroundings of Serrabona are also a magical place for beautiful walks in the heart of the wild Aspres: forests, meadows, small streams... This enchanting setting will seduce nature lovers and above all you will find a calm and bucolic atmosphere opposite the bustle of the coast. A visit to Serrabona is the perfect excursion for a family afternoon. Serrabona leaves no one indifferent!