For a stay in Mauriac, sacred architectural history and outdoor activities go hand in hand. The most striking landmarks are the Basilique Notre-Dame-des-Miracles and the Monastère Saint-Pierre; trails in the Val Saint-Jean and the Voie Verte Mauriac–Vendes add opportunities for exercise to the cultural attractions. The range of interests extends from Romanesque architecture and religious tradition to archaeological traces and leisure activities.
Romanesque Architecture and Devotion to Mary
Construction of the Basilique Notre-Dame-des-Miracles began in the 12th century. On 20 October 1921, Pope Benedict XV elevated the Église Notre-Dame-des-Miracles to the status of a minor basilica. The two dates mark different milestones: the start of construction and its later elevation by the Church. The basilica is considered the most important Romanesque building in the Cantal département and the département’s only basilica.
The Basilique Notre-Dame-des-Miracles houses a miraculous Black Madonna, venerated since the Middle Ages. The site thus brings together architectural history and a religious tradition dating back to the Middle Ages. Visitors interested in sacred art and history will find a clear cultural highlight here in Mauriac.
Monastery History and Museum
The history of the Monastère Saint-Pierre took shape in the 9th century with the construction of an abbey church and cloister buildings; the deanery was added later. Archaeological excavations have confirmed the existence of a 9th-century church and brought an 11th-century chapter house back to light. These finds make the different phases of the monastery’s history tangible: the early church was followed by further development, traces of which can be seen in the chapter house.
Guided tours of the Monastère Saint-Pierre take visitors through the different periods of the monastery’s history. Seasonal arrangements may vary. If you would like to plan a guided tour, check the dates in advance for the time of your visit.
The Musée de Mauriac is also connected with the history of the monastery: it is housed in former outbuildings of the Monastère Saint-Pierre. After the Revolution, these buildings served as the town’s prisons until 1951. During the summer season, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions. The former monastic buildings thus bring together different layers of history—from their use by the monastery and the town’s history to the museum programme today.
Trails and Scenery Around Mauriac
Le Val Saint-Jean lies on the outskirts of Mauriac, around a 9-hectare body of water. Activities range from walking trails to signposted routes for hiking or jogging, as well as a fitness trail and an aqua leisure centre. There are several ways to spend your leisure time here, without any single activity defining the character of the whole area.
The Puy Saint-Mary, a former volcanic vent overlooking Mauriac, offers a different aspect of the landscape. The Chapelle du Puy Saint-Mary was rebuilt on the foundations of a medieval chapel erected by monks from the Monastère Saint-Pierre. The connection between chapel and monastery brings Mauriac’s religious history beyond the town and into the surrounding landscape. The tradition of holding a fair at the Puy Saint-Mary on 8 June also continues.
For a trip on the move, the Voie Verte Mauriac–Vendes is another option. It is suitable for walking, cycling, mountain biking, inline skating and scooter riding. The Voie Verte is freely accessible every day throughout the year; access conditions may change temporarily. Check them before your visit if you would like to include the route in your plans.
The activities vary in focus: Le Val Saint-Jean brings together walking trails, signposted routes and other leisure facilities, while the Voie Verte accommodates several forms of non-motorised travel. When choosing a stay in Mauriac, you can therefore first consider whether you would like to focus on cultural history, activities around the water or a route that offers different ways to get around.
More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Carlat, Murat, Virargues, Maurs, Montgreleix, Clavières, Marcolès, Pailherols.
For the broader travel overview: Cantal.
