Église Saint-Hilarian-Sainte-Foy de Perse

Église Saint-Hilarian-Sainte-Foy de Perse is a Romanesque church in Espalion with a western entrance reached by stairs that opens into a three-bay nave. A four-level bell tower stands as a defining feature of this classified monument.

In 1060 the Calmont family gave the Perse monastery to Conques Abbey, which led to the church being dedicated to Saint Hilarian. This transfer connected the site to one of the region's major abbeys.

The main portal displays carved religious scenes that pilgrims have been seeing for centuries as they approach the entrance. These stone carvings tell stories of faith and shape what visitors encounter when they arrive.

The building is open daily from morning until evening and welcomes pilgrims traveling to Santiago de Compostela. Visitors should expect stairs at the main entrance and plan for self-guided exploration of the interior.

Hidden within the interior is a thirteenth-century burial chamber positioned between the western portal and the southern side arm of the building. This architectural feature shows how the space served multiple purposes across different time periods.

Location: Espalion

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

GPS coordinates: 44.51770,2.77121

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:08