Parcours de visite de l'abbaye de La Chaise-Dieu

The discovery trail offers:
– the “Clement VI Lodge” in the former kitchens, which recreates the historical context of the construction of the current abbey church, marked by epidemics, wars, and instability. Use of optical theaters and sound design

– the recently restored Gothic architectural cloister of which 2 galleries remain

– the Gothic abbey church, which is full of treasures such as the 15th-century fresco called "Dance of Death", the 144 carved oak stalls surrounding the marble tomb of Pope Clement VI and adorning the monks' choir separated from the nave by a magnificent Flamboyant Gothic rood screen, the great organ and its case sculpted with musical angels from the 17th century…
Please note: the church is closed to visitors on Sunday mornings due to religious services and during the Festival at the end of August. It is a parish church where celebrations (weddings, baptisms, or funerals) and events (organ concerts, etc.) may take place throughout the year, which could lead to the church being closed to visitors at any time.

– the history of the builders with presentation of the history of the abbey and part of the treasure

– the 14 Flemish tapestries from the beginning of the 16th century, a true national treasure classified as Historical Monuments since 1840, fully cleaned and restored, presented to the public in optimal lighting conditions in the Notre Dame du Collège Chapel rediscovered during the works of the building called “Echo Wing”

– the new scenography of the “Dance of Death” to playfully explain this unique fresco on the universal theme of death, leading the characters of medieval society into a funereal dance…

– the echo room with astonishing acoustics where secrets have been whispered in the corners for so many years…

For children, a discovery booklet is available to visit the site on request.

Visits can be made with an audio-visual guide included in the entrance fee or with a paper document. Visit time: approximately 2 hours

Thematic guided tours are offered with a tour guide by reservation at 04 71 00 01 16 (€6 in addition to entry) duration 1h30

– “Essential” visit to the abbey:
From the Saint-Robert abbey to the echo room, passing through the cloister, you will discover in particular the 14 Flemish tapestries, a true national treasure.

– “Thematic” visit to the tapestries of La Chaise-Dieu:
Between the history of the order, weaving techniques, materials used and comments on iconographic themes. Discover essential insights to understand this remarkable work.

– “Thematic” visit to the temporary exhibition

In order to best prepare for your visit, please contact us in advance on 04 71 00 01 16

The audioguide and the visits offered by our guides are complementary

The route is a walk through an abbey with several staircases. Some rooms are not accessible to wheelchair users.

supplement thematic guided tour: €6 per person