Abbaye Saint-Ménelée

The monastery complex includes a Romanesque church, cloisters, and conventual buildings situated in the Sioule valley of Puy-de-Dôme department.

Founded in the 7th century by Meneleus of Menat, the abbey later joined the Cluny order and became a center for monastic reform in Auvergne.

The monastery walls contain 15th-century murals depicting a Roman calendar, while the nave features capitals illustrating the life of Saint Meneleus.

The abbey houses a paleontological museum and maintains regular visiting hours, with guided tours available through the religious and historical sections.

The fortified structure retains its western turret and multi-lobed portals, demonstrating the defensive adaptations made during medieval periods of instability.

Location: Menat

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

GPS coordinates: 46.10417,2.90444

Latest update: June 23, 2025 11:06