Mozac Abbey | terravolcana

Find out more! A historic monastic site

The Abbey of Saint-Pierre and Saint-Caprais de Mozac is located in the commune of Mozac, just outside Riom, in the Puy-de-Dôme département. Founded in Merovingian times, over the centuries it became one of the major monastic establishments in Auvergne.

In 1095, the abbey became part of Cluny, the great reforming Benedictine order. This gave Mozac a stronger monastic organisation, greater resources and wider spiritual and artistic influence.

The Abbey of Saint-Pierre de Mozac suffered several earthquakes in the 15th century, partially destroying the buildings. These disasters led to major reconstruction campaigns, combining Romanesque and Gothic elements.

Discover Mozac Abbey

A historic event! Unique architecture

Mozac Abbey reflects the evolution of several centuries of religious architecture. The Carolingian crypt is one of the oldest parts: it still has massive walls, Gallo-Roman remains and an original layout with an ambulatory surrounding the central chapel and radiating chapels.

The nave and transept feature numerous sculpted Romanesque capitals, some of them historiated, which are among the most significant examples of religious sculpture in Auvergne. The church was partly rebuilt in Gothic style after the destruction of the 15th century, which explains the coexistence of several architectural styles.

Heritage Treasures and collections of Mozac Abbey

The abbey is home to some very valuable works of art and relics:

The shrine of Saint Calmin and Saint Namadie, made in the Middle Ages, is a remarkable example of religious goldsmithery.
The shrine of Saint Austremoine, another important reliquary, also testifies to the wealth of the treasury.
There is also a lapidary museum, housed in the convent buildings. This museum brings together Romanesque sculptures and architectural fragments from the abbey, including capitals discovered during excavations. It is managed by the Club Historique Mozacois, with the support of the municipality and the Riom Limagne et Volcans museums.

Find out about opening times and prices

To be done! Guided tours of the Pays d'Art et d'Histoire

The Pays d’Art et d’Histoire Riom Limagne et Volcans (PAH) offers guided and themed tours of the abbey all year round:

Guided tour of Saint-Pierre Abbey: explore the nave, the capitals, the treasury and the lapidary museum.
Themed tour of the murals: focus on the painted decorations still visible inside the church.
Workshops and tours for children, such as Chantier monastique, which introduces 6-12 year-olds to the history and trades associated with the abbey.
Unusual tours, including exceptional access to the upper room of the tower-porch, usually closed to the public.
Activities during the European Heritage Days: opening of the crypt, special tours of the lapidary museum and the cloister.