ABBAYE SAINT-MARTIN DU CANIGOU

  Since the 11th century, at the heart of the Canigou mountain range and perched high on a rocky outcrop, the old Benedictine abbey of Saint-Martin has quietly watched over the valley below. An amazing and unique discovery on a walk or drive, with its Lombard bell tower, marble capitals, and vaulted ceilings in the crypt and the abbey, all fine examples of early Romanesque art in the region.Lovingly restored in the 20th century, the abbey has been under the jurisdiction of the Catholic Beatitudes Community since 1988. Masses and other services are open to all.The abbey of Saint-Martin-du-Canigou is one of the stages on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route.Guided tours in French are available for individuals.The climb to the abbey must be made on foot (30-50 minute walk from the car park at Casteil). For those unable to make the journey on foot, there is a 4-wheel drive taxi service (individuals: 04 68 30 02 82, groups: 06 14 35 70 64).