Le Chalard

The medieval village of Le Chalard is famous for its gold mines, exploited since Gallic times. The construction of an abbey in the 11th century by Saint Geoffroy was the origin of the village?s development. Notable buildings include the "Maison des Anglais", the "Baille" and the late 11th-century Romanesque church, which houses the tomb of Saint Geoffroy, protected by a 15th-century sideboard. A monk?s cemetery with carved tombstones from the 12th and 15th centuries is located at the church?s head. The Maison de l'Or (Gold House) provides an insight into mining in the region, from the Gallic epic to the 21st century (prospecting, extraction, processing, environment, use of the precious metal). Other attractions include the remains of the Notre-Dame priory and its chapter house (privately owned, open on Heritage Days) and the medieval bridge at La Tour.