Lavaudieu Abbey cloisters

Lavaudieu Abbey cloisters : The Michelin guide review

All that remains of the old abbey founded in the 11C by St Robert is the fine (restored) cloister, the only one in Auvergne to have escaped destruction. Admire its small columns, either single or twinned, wreathed, cylindrical or polygonal, their capitals adorned with sculpted foliage and animals. The canopy on the upper floor is supported by oak posts. In the refectory, a 12C mural covers the entire back wall. The abbey church, its nave decorated with fine 14C frescoes, is also worth a visit.