Description:

Conques, Aveyron

Conques is one of the must see sights in this area of the Midi Pyrenees.  Originally settled in the 8th century by the hermit Dadon, he attracted a group of Benedictine monks.  At some point during the 9th century, one of the monks removed the remains of Saint Foy from a nearby monastery, possibly Agen and brought them to Conques.  The abbey-church was built during the 10th to 12th centuries on the sight of the original Basilica.

Saint Foy was a martyred young woman from the 4^th century who was believed to be able to cure blindness and free captives.  With her remains now in the Abbey, Conques became an important stop on the pilgrimage routes.

Conques is now a World Heritage Site, thanks to its inclusion on the list of World Heritage sites on the Route de Santiago de Compostela in France.  It is also listed as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France.

Geography

Located on a hillside in the Massif Central at the confluence of the Dourdou and Ouche rivers, the village overlooks the gorge of the little River Dourdou, 35 Km north of Rodez.  The original medieval layout of the town has been mostly preserved, with the only modern addition being a road through the centre.

Tourism

The abbey is in the heart of the medieval village of narrow streets, which are a pleasure to stroll around.  The west gate of abbey has the tympanum, with 24 characters illustrating Judgement Day, showing God sat in the centre and Heaven and Hell on either side.

Guided tours of the abbey, taking around 45 minutes, are available at a cost of 3.60€ for adults and 2€ for children.

The Tresor or treasury contains, amongst many pieces of gold, silver, precious stones and Romanesque sculptures, a gold statue of Saint Foy.  Entrance costs 6€ for adults and 2€ for children and includes entry to the Joseph Fau gallery.  The Tresor is open every day but closed for lunch between 1230 and 1400.

Having taken in the architectural and religious heritage, head to the river for a different view point of the whole village.

Economy

There is little else to the economy than tourism and the village has become very de-populated.

Transport

The nearest airport is Rodez, around 32 Km away and the easiest way to Conques from here is by hire car.

Public transport is very limited, with a bus running to the village in the morning and returning in the evening. 

Due to the narrow streets, tour busses must park outside the town.  The easiest way to travel is using your own car.

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