I am putting my plans together for my family trip to the Dordogne in June, and want to take the grandkids to an impressive church as this is their first trip to France. I realize this area is not as well-known for great churches as are other sections of France, but along with the caves and castles I want them to see an example of medieval or Renaissance sacred architecture. Does anyone have a suggestion for something to impress a couple of California preteens? We will have cars and a full 7 days there. Lascaux, Font de Gaume, river kayaking, markets, castles (and any demonstrations of medieval arts/jousting, etc.) are in the plans, but a visit to a great church would fill out their experience. It could whet their appetite for another trip when they are older. Thanks in advance!
Posted by
Colorado Mountains, USA
7403 posts
The first thing I thought of was the Lantern of the Dead in Sarlat. OK, while it’s not a massive gothic cathedral with a soaring vaulted ceiling and countless Madonna and Child paintings, it’s unique, and turns out it’s right behind the Cathedrale Sainte-Marie. It made an impression on me, and that trip to Sarlat and the Dordogne was a long, long time ago.
It seems to me the Rick Steves’ guidebook description was about a monument that some big-shot had built for himself way back when. This article could offer more details, and you and the kids could get a 2-for-1 bonus sight, and not one you’ll find just anywhere. See https://www.seedordogne.com/religious/lanterne-des-morts-lantern-of-the-dead-sarlat-la-caneda-700278
Posted by
L'Occitanie, France
10221 posts
The cathedral in Périgueux, Cathédrale Saint-Front de Périgueux, is pretty amazing. It's actually pretty unique with a Romanesque Byzantine style, different from the spiring pointed arches you see in the northern France gothic cathedrals. Definitely worth a visit.
Posted by
Berkeley, California, US
619 posts
I agree with Cyn about the Lantern of the Dead in Sarlat. I was there as well as in the Cathedral last spring and thought it was well worth seeing. In any case, Sarlat itself is not to be missed.
And thanks, Bets, I was in Perigueux only once, just long enough for lunch and so did not see the Cathedral. Thanks for the recommendation as I'll be going back and this time will make a point of it.
Posted by
la rioja
534 posts
Hi Judy,
we were in the Dordogne with a teen and preteen (15 and 12) and we visited Bridoire, La Chateaue des Jeux. It is close to Bergerac. It is very hands on, and there is a lot to do. Our kids loved it.
Also, sometimes it doesn´t have to be a great cathedral. There are small churches which can be very interesting too. I don´t know the Dordogne too well, but for example, in the Ariège department the Eglise Notre Dame de Vals, which was carved out of rock was very interesting to our kids. (then 13 and 10).
Posted by
OP
Long Beach, Ca, usa
687 posts
Gee, thank you all for the suggestions. We will definitely visit the church in Sarlat, and if we get to Perigeux we will stop by the cathedral. Can't wait for the trip to start!
Posted by
France Southwest
1834 posts
20 kms from Sarlat, I recommend the Abbey of Coly Saint-Amand, almost 1000 years old
Coly Saint-Amand (or Saint-Amand de Coly) is ranked among the most beautiful villages in France
https://www.colysaintamand.fr/histoire/
35km from Sarlat:
In Belvès, Church of "Notre-Dame de l'Assomption"
A 13th century church with 16th century wall paintings