THE SAINT-BERTRAND-DE-COMMINGES/VALCABRERE SITE

About

A major stopover on the roads to Compostela, the Grand Site Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges/Valcabrère offers a remarkable archaeological and monumental heritage. A crossroads of gentle itinerancy, the site is an ideal place for cycling and walking.

Lugdunum Convenae, an ancient Roman town, was a prosperous settlement with several thousand inhabitants at the heart of a major transport network. It possessed all the hallmarks of a significant Roman town: a theatre, a temple, a forum, thermal baths and a vast market. The underground ruins at Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges/Valcabrère bear witness today to this rich ancient heritage.

The imposing Sainte-Marie Cathedral, meanwhile, stands as a testament to the former medieval bishopric. Its cloister, opening out onto the hills of the Pyrenean foothills, is a place full of charm. The choir stalls and the organ, both dating from the Renaissance, are other highlights of the visit.

Another key monument on the site, the Romanesque Basilica of Saint-Just-de-Valcabrère, standing alone amidst the fields, is particularly unusual. Built on the site of a Roman necropolis, it is largely constructed from reused stones taken from that very necropolis. The cathedral and the basilica, as well as the early Christian basilica and the Chapel of Saint Julien, situated in the lower town, are listed by UNESCO as part of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela.

The archaeological museum, open in summer, hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing the archaeological history of the site and the surrounding area.

Crossed by the GR861-Via Garona and the GR78-Voie du Piémont, the site is the starting point for numerous walks and hikes suitable for all levels, not to mention the Garonne cycle path for cycling enthusiasts.

On the cathedral forecourt, you’ll find ‘Les Olivétains – Haute-Garonne Tourisme’, where you can get all the information you need for visiting the site, the surrounding area and the department. Guided tours for groups. Temporary exhibitions. Bookshop and gift shop.