Haims brings together a layered local history and the protected landscape of the Brandes de la Pierre-La between Haims and Journet. Cultural themes include the Église Saint-Michel with its monumental paintings, the former Templar complex, historic place names and a carnival story. Chökhor Ling adds teaching programs and opportunities for exchange. When planning your visit, you can choose different themes to focus on: architectural history, traditions, religious exchange or landscape.
Cultural History and Stories
The Église Saint-Michel dates from the 11th century and has undergone extensive alterations over time. Its monumental paintings are located on the vault of the nave, spanning three bays, and on the back of the façade. A bay is a section of the nave; this description helps convey how the paintings extend across several sections.
The Tour de la commanderie is the only surviving remnant of a large complex built by the Templars in Haims. In the 12th century, the complex included various agricultural buildings, a residential building and a chapel. These building types represent the agricultural, residential and religious functions of the former ensemble.
Place names and administrative boundaries also tell a story of change. The Château de Thenet lies within the territory of the former parish of Thenet, also known as Anthenet; the parish was incorporated into Haims in 1820. The Croix des Pagenauds, also known as the croix Chadrat, is located near the village of the same name and dates to 1839. The dates refer to different things: 1820 marks the incorporation of the former parish, while 1839 is the date of the cross.
The legend of the Carnaval des Chats offers another facet. According to the story, cats often gather at Mardi Gras at a crossroads or by a cross to celebrate their carnival. At Chökhor Ling, teaching programs and opportunities for exchange are open to Buddhists and non-Buddhists. If you are planning a specific visit, check the current program, as schedules may change. Unlike the architectural heritage, this topic is about teaching and exchange rather than architecture.
Landscape and Cycling Route
The Brandes de la Pierre-La lie between Haims and Journet and are protected as a Natura 2000 site. The landscape mosaic includes heathland, forests, grasslands, pools and ponds. This diversity is important to the landscape perspective: the area is not limited to open heathland, but also includes woodland, grasslands and bodies of water.
The moderately difficult circular cycling route Vallée des fresques et brandes passes through valleys and heathland and takes in painted chapels, churches and châteaux. Unlike individual architectural landmarks, this route combines natural landscapes with several types of painted architecture in a single circuit. Its moderate difficulty rating can help you factor cycling into your travel plans.
Discover more destinations: La Trimouille, Berrie, Dissay, Gouex, La Roche-Posay, Thuré, Moulismes, Thollet
For the main travel overview: Vienne.
