CENTRE HISTORIQUE DE MEYRUEIS

Nestled at the confluence of three rivers, flowing down from Mt Aigoual, between Causses and Cévennes, in the heart of the Cévennes National Park, Meyrueis commands the entrance to the Gorges de la Jonte. In the Middle Ages, the geographical location of the village made it a commercial crossroads. This old commercial city, dominated by "the Rock of the Castle" once crowned by the fortress of the Barons of Anduze, Meyrueis has preserved a high quality built heritage. Thus, in addition to the old castle and religious buildings, Meyrueis is home to several mansions built thanks to the flourishing wool trade. Medieval and Renaissance houses, towers and gates of the ramparts, classic mansions line the picturesque streets. The temple of Meyrueis currently visible was commissioned in 1840. The building is made up of two interlocking octagons which thus provide a vast space. Its beauty lies in its fully paneled interior, from the dome to the pillars that support it. In addition, a wooden gallery runs around the entire perimeter of the building, serving as stands on five sides. Two monumental staircases serve the stands and the adjoining rooms. The building covered with a slate roof carries a small campanile* while a monumental staircase marks the entrance to the temple. The temple of Meyrueis, considered one of the most important in the department, can accommodate 700 people. The catholic church of Meyrueis is dedicated to Saint-Pierre. A former Benedictine priory, mentioned in 1034, dependent on Saint-Guilhem-du-Désert, once occupied the Saint-Pierre district. The current building dates from 1663 and the choir only dates from the 19th century. It is one of the largest churches in Lozère. The large arcades of the chapels are original. A fine gilded wooden statue of St. Joseph may be an ancient Christ. The bell tower was redone in 1848. Land of old tradition, the region of Meyrueis retains an important breeding activity. It is entirely included in the area of inscription on the World Heritage of Humanity.

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