HEURE

A discovery in Comminges

3hrs

The upper town

On the cathedral square, Les Olivetains exhibition centre provides an introduction to the site's history, enables you to take a guided tour or see an exhibition of contemporary art. The old village centre is home to an archaeological museum which is open in summer and has an exhibition of items found during archaeological digs.

Down below in the valley, don't miss the little Romanesque church of Saint-Just-de-Valcabrère, built with stones taken from the old Roman city.

The cathedral of Saint-Bertrand and the Basilica of Saint-Just-de-Valcabrère are UNESCO World Heritage listed in the context of the Santiago de Compostela Pilgrim Ways.

Constructed between 1525 and 1535 in accordance with the wishes of the bishop, Jean de Mauléon, the choir stalls were designed to keep the canons separate from the crowds of pilgrims. Made of oak, there are 66 stalls and a bishop's throne. The wealth of this carved group lies in the variety and profusion of decorative detail. You should also see the organ, set in a corner, and also commissioned by Jean de Mauléon, thus completing this ensemble. The decorations figures the Labours of Hercules. During the Comminges festival, its exceptional sound can be heard.