Built in the 12th century at the request of the monks of the abbey of Sainte-Christine du Somport, the church is intended to welcome travelers on a road linking Béarn to Navarre at the time.

Although of Romanesque tradition by its squat shape, its thick walls and its small openings, the church has elements of Hispano-Moorish architecture which give it its unique character.

This uncluttered monument, with modest dimensions, presents a centered plan centered on the dome, the true jewel of the building with its intersecting arches forming an eight-pointed star.

The claustras, veritable stone lace that closes the windows, are also typically Spanish and recall the decorations of oriental moucharabiehs. Exceptional elements of  due to their number and the diversity of their motifs, they make up the largest preserved ensemble in France.

Unique testimony in France between Romanesque art and Hispano-Moorish art, the church was listed in 1998 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a major site on the Way of Santiago de Compostela.

The church has benefited from nine restoration campaigns which have spread from the beginning of the 20th century to today and which have enabled an almost complete restoration of the building.

​

​

Visit the church:

​

Every day from May to September,

 

20-minute sound & light shows allow an exceptional presentation and an unusual way to visit the church.

​

Or

​

The audio-guide allows you a quick and commented tour of the monument. Simultaneously, the lighting is triggered according to the architectural elements that are explained to you... Take full advantage of this unique place thanks to this autonomous visit system!