Nestled on the banks of the Dronne, Brantôme Abbey holds many secrets. Join us as we explore some of the treasures hidden behind its facade, guided by Julie Martinet, director of the Brantôme Tourist Office.
We have often mentioned Brantôme. This village, beautifully situated in a meander of the Dronne river, just 30 minutes from Château le Verdoyer campsite in the Dordogne, is truly one of the jewels of the Périgord Vert.
It is a delightful place for a stroll, especially on market days, particularly along the esplanade running beside the magnificent Brantôme Abbey. With its bell tower, which is among the oldest in France, its white stone facade, and its 16th-century bridge, it undoubtedly features in the finest holiday photos taken by our loyal guests.
How many, however, have ventured inside the Abbey? Because, as beautiful as it is, this Abbey is merely a setting for the true jewel of Brantôme. Behind the main buildings, you will discover a series of cavities carved into the limestone cliff supporting the Abbey. These date back to the beginning of Christianity and initially served as refuges for men and later for hermits.
It is in one of these cavities that the monks sculpted a superb bas-relief in the 15th century. This is the cave of the “Last Judgement.”
The cave actually houses two bas-reliefs:
- The first, on the right, depicts the crucifixion.
- The second, and most important, is sculpted into the back of the cave. Eight meters high, it recounts the Last Judgement in a style reminiscent of Outsider Art (Art Brut). This complex sculpture, where Death and its scythe occupy a central place, is teeming with detail. You may appreciate it as it is, but if you wish to decipher all its symbols, we recommend opting for the guided tour.
Above the bas-relief, you will notice 240 holes in the wall. The cave also served as a dovecote for the monks, who valued the bird’s meat.
Besides its bas-relief, the Abbey also houses a fountain fed by a spring to which miraculous properties are attributed, particularly regarding fertility. This is the Saint-Sicaire Fountain.
Saint-Sicaire was a child martyr whose relics Charlemagne is said to have brought to Brantôme. Whether or not you believe in its powers, dipping your fingers in certainly costs nothing!
