Basilica of Saint Julien de Brioude

Emblematic monument located in the heart of the town Brioude

Classified 3 * by the Michelin green guide, the Basilica of Saint-Julien, a place of memory and exception, attracts visitors dazzled by the dimensions of the building and the profusion of color of the building which is built on the tomb of Julien , martyred in the XNUMXth century

The Basilica was a very popular place of pilgrimage in the Middle Ages.
By its majesty, the largest of Auvergne's churches captivates the truly astonished visitor in the face of the profusion of colors. Those of construction materials which alternate pink and blond sandstones, volcanic slag but also limestones and marbles.
This polychromy of the stones goes very well with the pictorial richness of the pillars; in the Saint-Michel chapel the dazzling beauty of the celestial vault opposes the chaos of hell.

descriptive flyer of thebasilica

Contemporary stained glass windows

They created a luminous atmosphere "the color makes the stones sing", translating the elevation of the soul in a search for spirituality.

In 2008 the installation of contemporary stained glass windows painted by Kim En Joong, Dominican of Korean origin and created by Ateliers Loire de Chartres, enhanced this festival of colors.

Pavement of the Basilica

Astonishing calade carpet made from simple river pebbles, tender Madonnas, poignant crucifixions, richness of the capitals, contribute to creating fascination, contemplation and emotion within this stone setting. This floor of basalt and quartz pebbles arranged in flowers, rosettes and waves was rediscovered in 1963 and catches the visitor's eye as soon as they enter.

Profusion of decorations

The numerous frescoes discovered in 1957 complete the polychromy of the Basilica: Inside there is a substantial collection of sculptures (around 300 Romanesque capitals where foliage, animals carrying symbols and human representations coexist). Poignant crucifixions and virgins complete this architectural ensemble.

Access to the Saint Michel chapel only accessible during guided tours

Located in the south gallery of the Basilica of Saint Julien de Brioude, the chapel is under the protection of Saint Michael, the ferryman of souls, leader of the celestial militia. The vault and walls are a representation of the heavenly court and hell.

Recent studies allow to affirm that it is not about a funeral chapel as it was believed for a long time

The richness and grandeur of the murals will surprise all visitors.

For security reasons, access to the Chapelle Saint Michel is only possible during accompanied guided tours.