Sainte-Marie du Désert Abbey, Bellegarde-Sainte-Marie, France

Sainte-Marie du Désert Abbey was founded in 1852. It was raised to the status of priory in 1855, and to abbey in 1861. The abbey was founded on the pilgrimage site of Marie Desclassan's tomb, who lived in there eremitic life in 1109-1117.

User Reviews

Camille Vigouroux (5 months ago)
Ideal for resting, being with oneself, and sharing a healthy human and spiritual conviviality.

carmencha chavez (6 months ago)
It is an inspiring and peaceful place, I thank the monks who are there until today, October 3, and I wish them to continue being the Light of God wherever they go

Eric Lassabe (10 months ago)
Very beautiful place full of serenity and spirituality

Chantal GICQUEL (14 months ago)
Very beautiful place of worship. Magnificent architecture, and pretty stained glass windows.

alain fougery (15 months ago)
Wonderful place of serenity where we meet people who bring peace

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Antiquarium

Situated in the basement of Metropol Parasol, Antiquarium is a modern, well-presented archaeological museum with sections of ruins visible through glass partitions, and underfoot along walkways.

These Roman and Moorish remains, dating from the first century BC to the 12th century AD, were discovered when the area was being excavated to build a car park in 2003. It was decided to incorporate them into the new Metropol Parasol development, with huge mushroom-shaped shades covering a market, restaurants and concert space.

There are 11 areas of remains: seven houses with mosaic floors, columns and wells; fish salting vats; and various streets. The best is Casa de la Columna (5th century AD), a large house with pillared patio featuring marble pedestals, surrounded by a wonderful mosaic floor – look out for the laurel wreath (used by emperors to symbolise military victory and glory) and diadem (similar meaning, used by athletes), both popular designs in the latter part of the Roman Empire. You can make out where the triclinium (dining room) was, and its smaller, second patio, the Patio de Oceano.

The symbol of the Antiquarium, the kissing birds, can be seen at the centre of a large mosaic which has been reconstructed on the wall of the museum. The other major mosaic is of Medusa, the god with hair of snakes, laid out on the floor. Look out for the elaborate drinking vessel at the corners of the mosaic floor of Casa de Baco (Bacchus’ house, god of wine).

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