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 trading city, dominated by "le Rocher du Château" 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 private mansions built thanks to the flourishing wool trade. Medieval and Renaissance houses, tower and rampart gates, classic private mansions line the picturesque alleys. The temple of Meyrueis currently visible was put into service in 1840. The building is composed of two nested octagons which thus create a vast space. Its beauty lies in its interior panelling, all panelled, from the dome to the pillars that support it. In addition, a wooden gallery runs around the entire perimeter of the building, serving as galleries on five sides. Two monumental staircases serve the galleries and the adjoining rooms. The building covered with a slate roof has a small bell tower* 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 beautiful gilded wooden statue of Saint Joseph is perhaps an ancient Christ. The bell tower was rebuilt in 1848. A land of old tradition, the Meyrueis region retains a significant livestock breeding activity. It is entirely included in the area of registration as a World Heritage Site.

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