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Church · Moissac, Occitânia
Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Moissac
The former Benedictine abbey of Moissac, a World Heritage site, with the church of Saint-Pierre and the tympanum of the south portal, from the 12th century, depicting the vision of the Apocalypse.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Moissac
The Abbey of Saint-Pierre de Moissac was one of the most powerful Benedictine abbeys in southwestern France, linked to the order of Cluny, with lands and priories as far as Catalunha. Since 1998 it has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage as a monument on the Routes of Santiago in France.
The best-known feature of the church is the tympanum of the south portal, carved in the first half of the 12th century. It shows the Apocalypse vision of Saint John: Christ in majesty at the center, surrounded by the symbols of the four evangelists and by the 24 elders, each with an instrument and a cup, looking toward him. The central pier and the sides of the portal have figures of prophets, interlaced lions and biblical scenes.
The church mixes a Romanesque part—the tower-porch with the portal—with a nave rebuilt in the Gothic style in the 15th century. Inside there is a 15th-century pietà and other old images.
The abbey also includes the cloister, one of the masterpieces of European Romanesque art, with its own entrance beside the church.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 to 45 minutes for the tympanum and the church.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, with side light on the tympanum. Combine with the cloister next door.
How to get there
It is in the center of Moissac, about a 10-minute walk from the station.
Tip
Stop in front of the tympanum and look for the 24 elders, each with a different face, looking at Christ. Then head to the cloister.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Moissac
What does the tympanum of Moissac show?
The vision of the Apocalypse of Saint John, with Christ in majesty, the symbols of the evangelists and the 24 elders.
Is the abbey a World Heritage Site?
Yes, since 1998, as part of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela in France.
Do the church and the cloister have the same entrance?
No. The church is accessed through the south portal, and the cloister has its own entrance beside it.