Toulongergues, a tiny village with one of France’s oldest churches
Toulongergues is nestled in the countryside, in the commune of Villeneuve d’Aveyron, about 4 kilometres south of the town centre. The village may be small, but it is home to one of the oldest churches not only in southern France, but in all of Western Europe. The Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in Toulongergues indeed dates back to the 10th century.
This jewel of pre-Romanesque architecture stands near the Château de Toulongergues, a former 15th-century priory. This superb yet unassuming church survived destruction during the French Revolution, as it was converted into a barn. Although its upkeep was neglected at the time, it managed to retain some of its original architectural and decorative features.
Dedicated to the apostles Peter and Paul, the church boasts remarkable features, such as a small column in the apse adorned with a sculpture of Saint Paul. Remnants of 11th-century frescoes also decorate the choir and alcoves. The Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in Toulongergues was eventually acquired by the municipality of Villeneuve-d’Aveyron in 1984. It was listed as a Historical Monument in 1988 and subsequently underwent meticulous restoration by the French Heritage Buildings Authority.
You can visit this exceptional building on a self-guided tour, but access is limited to Tuesday afternoons during July and August. However, guided tours for groups of at least 10 people can be arranged year-round by reservation through the Villeneuve-d’Aveyron Tourist Office. Definitely a must-see when you’re in the area!
Department of Aveyron
Coordinates: Lat 44.404598 – Long 2.027047
Photo via Wikimedia Commons: Church and Prior’s house and Header by MOSSOT CC BY-SA 3.0
