GR®765 et Chemin de St-Jacques-de-Compostelle Cluny/Le-Puy-en-Velay Etape Montverdun - Montbrison

Dare to walk through the fortified gate of this residence to discover a remarkable architecture. You will be surprised by the layout of the place and the treasures it contains : "Magna Camera", vast reception room ; terraced gardens...

Champdieu priory represents a group of monastery buildings erected from the 11th century onwards. The church owns many carved capitals, and is notable for its 11th century semi-buried crypt. In the cloisters of the monastery, a 15th century fresco painting of the Last Supper can be seen.Founded around the year 1000 by a group of monks from Manglieu in Auvergne, the priory of Champdieu is one of the most interesting examples of Romanesque architecture in the Forez. Fortified during the Hundred-year war, it presents a most original silhouette with its series of arches and its parapet walk. Not to be missed: Roman crypt, refectory with XVth century fresco.

With its slate roofs topped with pinnacles and its rammed earth structure, the Château de Vaugirard is a beautiful example of the early 17th century classical architecture.Listed as a historic monument and classed as « remarkable mud brick construction”, the castle is a typical example of the more comfortable style of architecture introduced at the beginning of the 17th century. Take a walk in the castle gardens replanted in an English style in the 19th century, before going inside to discover the well proportioned , harmonious architecture of this castle. Admire the frescoes portraying the Grand Caroussel organised by Louis XIV, unique in France.

Notre Dame d'Espérance collegiate church is an iconic monument of the Forez. With a unique gothic architecture and more than eight centuries of history, it is the place to go when you are in Montbrison.The XVth century bell tower, supported by buttresses, gives to the façade an imposing character with its two flights of twin windows. The doorway and its lateral and superior surround show much architectural richness. The five lancet arches stacked in order are arranged according to the art of perspective. The stylobates at their base are decorated with buttresses whose width decreases progressively, ending in small spires. They are spaced so as to harbour two figurines on top of each other, which they have been waiting for for 7 centuries. The doorway tympanum comprises two rows of blind arches. It is sculpted and topped with orders in lancet arch where niches have been prepared for 12 smaller figurines. In the centre, pride of place is reserved to a XIIth centurey statue of the Virgin Mary carrying the infant.

This centre of Romanesque Art combines a rigorous scientific approach, audiovisual equipment and hands-on exhibits in order to satisfy all types of visitors, from the most knowledgeable to the most amateur (pedagogical workshops offered).Permanent exhibition : "Monks and builders of the year 1000".

You will find tourist documentation and information to discover the city and the region, but also show tickets as well as local products.Parking next to the Tourist Office: * Place Eugène Baune at 10 meters : 40 places including two for people with disabilities (blue zone) * Place de l'Hôtel de Ville at 20 meters: about 40 places (blue zone)

The heraldry hall of Diana, adorned with a ceiling decorated with 1,728 coats of arms, is a unique place in France. The Diana has a library containing 30 000 books«The heraldic hall of Diana, adorned with a ceiling decorated with 1,728 coats of arms, is a unique place in France.

Set in an old railway station, the Buffet de la Gare invites you to discover flavours of the world in its cuisine.