Near Rodez, Aurillac, and Figeac, and the River Lot
The Typanum at Abbaye de Ste Foy at Conques
After
taking the pretty D901, through the village of Marcillac-Vallon, famous
for its lovely fruity red wines, one comes to one of the most beautiful
villages of France - Conques. A village to visit at any time of the year,
from the cold of winter to the heady heat of Summer.
It is here that one comes across a village that has kept its medieval houses,
and its streets of bygone years, under the eyes of the beautiful Abbey
church of Sainte-Foy. The warm clustering of Abbey and cloisters, of chapel,
and neighbouring houses, as well as a Medieval art center that holds concerts
throughout the year - is welcoming and well worth a day or two of your
time. Stay at the warm and accommodating Auberge Saint Jacques - with excellent
dining at its restaurant on the first floor, and pleasant warm bedrooms
in the centre of the village of Conques.
One of the prime attractions is the 12th century Typanum frieze that is
over the subdued entrance to the Abbey. It depicts the kingdoms of heaven
and hell, showing all things beautiful and bad that can happen in the after
life. Here above are shown Heaven to the left and to the right a snatch
of the hellish life of hell! You must visit Conques to see the whole story!
The Tympanum at the Abbaye Sainte Foy
Visit the beautiful Medieval village of Conques
The interior of the Abbey Church at Conques. Is as it should
be, A marriage of contemplation, simplicity, and emblems of faith. Modern
sculptures have been placed in the smaller chapels, as well as more traditional
altars. It is quiet, solid, with awe inspiring play of columns and shafts
of light.
The cloisters have lost a lot of their original splendor, but nature provides
a good background. The balance of nature and man. By way of the cloisters
you can visit the Tresor - a treasury of gold and gems and other fine metals,
artfully sculpted, and adorned on wonderful religious artefacts including
the relics of Sainte Foy, beautiful crucifixes, altars, that make the visit
worth while both visually and spiritually.
The Cloister, with entrance to the "Tresor" at Conques
Take a walk around the village, and see the old chateau,
the small chapel, as well as the old hospice, and the numerous fountains.
Go to the top
of the village and visit the European
Medieval Cultural Center (Centre
Européen d'Art et de Civilisation Médiévale) - and
see interesting exhibitions by artist, go to the music festivals, literary
events, and
other cultural happenings. If you are looking for a night away, from
your holiday rental, or to take an over night on your tour of France
- Conques can surprise and raise your spirits in ways that might astound
you!
One of the many side streets of Conques that exude with textures, water,
walls, and lovely views
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