The Chapterhouse

Clocher heptagonal

The most symbolic building in St Paul is The Chapter House, a classified Historical Monument, and above all the  bell tower above the chapel.

The tenth century Benedictine Abbey became the collegiate Chapter House in the fourteenth century. This date coincides with the major works on the church. This collegiate was very rich until the end of the eighteenth century when, sadly, due to the Revolution,it was sold by auction and turned into private apartments.

The Ministry of Culture and Historic Buildings, together with theMunicipal Authorities have plans to return this building to its previous magnificence. It owed its splendour in tne 18thcentury to it's impressive stucco decoration, it's "bas relief" sculptures and twisted columns.

From the top of its hexagonal bell-tower, unique in Lanquedoc-Roussillon, there is a beautiful panoramic view of the Gorge de  Galamus, the Clou de la Fou and the St Paul valley with its vineyards.

These buildings can be visited during the Museum opening hours (see below) .Tourist Office opening hours