Collégiale de Saint-Bonnet-le-Château

The Collégiale de Saint-Bonnet-le-Château is a Gothic church with three naves and soaring vaults. The structure displays typical Gothic features with sturdy buttresses reflecting a building period that spanned multiple centuries.

Construction started around 1400 with major work finished by 1418, funded by generous donations from wealthy citizens. Patrons like Guillaume Taillefer made such an ambitious building project possible.

The interior preserves wall paintings from around 1400 that reflect the artistic skill of the period. These works offer a direct look at the religious life and artistic tastes of the community back then.

The main areas are open during daytime hours, though the library, bell tower, and lower chapel require a guided tour to visit. Planning ahead helps ensure you can see the specific sections you are interested in.

The interior contains preserved human remains discovered during 19th-century renovation work that survived due to unusual soil conditions. These rare finds offer a direct window into burial practices of earlier times.

Location: Saint-Bonnet-le-Château

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

GPS coordinates: 45.42360,4.06750

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:06