Romanesque churches in the Louron
True hidden gems
Discover the painted churches of the Louron Valley, a jewel nestled within this preserved valley. These churches stand out for their 16th-century mural paintings, found both on plaster and on wood. Most of these buildings date back to the Romanesque period (around the 12th century) and are located in the Louron villages perched in the surrounding hills.
The Saint-Calixte church
The church is located above the village of Cazaux-Frechet. As a former parish church, it once served as the main seat of a parish with two annexes in Estarvielle and Mont.
Open during the tourist season through the Aure Louron Land of Art and History program. For more information 05 62 40 10 71
The Saint-Barthélémy church
This Romanesque church is exceptional for its 16th-century painted decoration, which covers all the interior walls, as well as its southern exterior façade, where a large depiction of the Last Judgment and a representation of Hell can be seen.
Open everyday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Free entry. Audio-guide available on site for 2 €.
The Vielle-louron church
The church shelters the relics of Saint Mercurial, a knight martyred in the early 11th century. As such, it was a pilgrimage site during the Middle Ages. Inside, the nave vault and the entire chancel are decorated with several biblical scenes created by the same workshop between 1593 and 1600.
Open during the tourist season through the Aure Louron Land of Art and History program. For more information 05 62 40 10 71
The Saint-Pierre church
In its Romanesque apse, the church was decorated with paintings at the end of the 16th century. These are now partly hidden by a Baroque altarpiece.
Open during the tourist season through the Aure Louron Land of Art and History program. For more information 05 62 40 10 71
The Aranvielle chapel
The village of Aranvielle was attached to the commune of Loudenvielle until 1806. It was formerly an independent community. The church was built in the Romanesque period overlooking Lake Génos-Loudenvielle.
Open during the tourist season through the Aure Louron Land of Art and History program. For more information 05 62 40 10 71
The Aure Louron Land of Art and History
To prepare your visit, you can check the current program of the Land of Art and History, which includes village tours, cultural hikes, short guided visits, torchlight tours, church openings, and more.
CONTACT : pah@aure-louron.fr / 05 62 40 10 71 or 05 62 99 95 35
