Couvent des Cordeliers de Charlieu, Gothic convent in Saint-Nizier-sous-Charlieu, France.
The Couvent des Cordeliers is a Gothic convent in Saint-Nizier-sous-Charlieu defined by its interior galleries with continuous arches and exterior buttresses decorated with rosettes. The building preserves one original gargoyle at its southwest corner and displays fine medieval architectural details throughout its structure.
The convent was destroyed in 1360 during the Hundred Years War but was rebuilt at the end of the 14th century by Hugh of Châtelus, lord of Chateaumorand. This reconstruction allowed the Gothic structure to take the form it displays today.
The carved capitals in the north gallery show animals and human figures that medieval craftsmen placed there as expressions of everyday life. You notice a monkey, snake, parrot, and an elderly person among the stone details, suggesting these artisans drew inspiration from the world around them.
You can explore the site from Tuesday through Sunday, with extended hours during peak season and shorter hours in the quieter months. Comfortable shoes are useful since you'll be walking through galleries and courtyards throughout your visit.
In 1910, American owners planned to dismantle two gallery sections and use them to decorate a tennis court in California. Local authorities intervened quickly and saved the medieval stonework from being shipped overseas.
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