Cadouin Things to Do Tips by hquittner

See the Church Adornments

Apparently there were several religious enhancements during the Cistercian period and later when the cloister was added in the 15C and the stained glass later. Most uncharacteristic are the frescos, capitals and column decorations which were earlier.

See the Interior of the Church

Although the church is Cistercian it has many subtle enrichments. The Gothic arcades, that separate the aisles from the nave, have plain capitals but the capitals in the apses and transepts are carved. There are fresco in the apse and altar semidomes and a large cross on the decorated altar. The stained glass windows are recent and are not in character.

Look At the Church Facade

Since the Abbey church was built as a Cistercian site, it is surprising that the facade is as nicely decorated as it is. Of course it has no carved figures but the small column capitals are carved and it has significant architectural design. The main portal has a set of three smooth recessed arches and the windows are recessed as well. To the north of the portal is a double blind-arched arcade and above this level are three large recessed windows. Near the roof line is a set of nine blind arcades (and an oculus) resembling Lombard bands. Alongside the church abbatial buildings stretch to the south