Here, we take genuine pride in sharing Romanesque art, displaying its capabilities while conveying the tranquillity, strength and wisdom with which it has become synonymous. The Abbey Church of Saint-Austremoine is an excellent example, with its simple facade, built on a wide esplanade, harmoniously proportioned and featuring a Zodiac cycle comprising 13 signs. Another feature is its interior, which is covered entirely by a decorative scheme painted in the 19th century. Long criticised as they were considered too violent, these paintings produced by Anatole Dauverge, are today recognised, protected and regularly restored. The decorations on the capitals represent the Last Supper, centaurs, griffins and shepherds, leading onto a high dome (23 m or 75 ft).

Just a stone's throw away, the Pomel Centre was created on the site of a former monastery and houses the Georges Duby Romanesque Arts Centre, (Duby was a leading specialist on the Middle Ages).
All year round, you can come along and enjoy the exhibitions, international colloquiums and festivals of artistic expression organised by the centre. The Belfry (Clock Tower) has been devoted to the Renaissance period. Shows, contemporary art and music events all contribute to the town's lively cultural scene.
The historical town centre is rich in buildings dating from the 15th century including, the Clément and Bohier private residences and the Museum of the Philosopher’s Stone at the Maison de la Bascule.
And after exploring the sunny streets with their southern atmosphere and small squares, why not take a walk in the Livradois hills, as you experience the vast open spaces of the Dauphiné d’Auvergne, an area which remains well preserved, intact and dynamic.

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