Visit and discover the secrets of Saint-Hilaire Abbey

Experience the serenity of the Gothic cloister

Upon arrival, the Gothic cloister welcomes you with twin columns adorned with vegetal capitals. At its center, a 16th-century basin and a mysterious chessboard carved into the east gallery wall catch your eye.

Admire a Romanesque masterpiece

The partly Romanesque church houses a 12th-century sarcophagus, a major work by the Master of Cabestany. It depicts the arrest and martyrdom of Saint Sernin, first bishop of Toulouse in the 3rd century.

Relive the Cathar history

Until the 13th century, the abbey thrived under the protection of the Counts of Carcassonne. But the Cathar Crusade changed its fate: monks lost autonomy and property. In 1246, Saint Louis ordered the restitution of confiscated lands.

Explore the abbatial residence

Admire a 15th-century painted ceiling restored in 2013 and 19th-century frescoes depicting the coats of arms of 55 abbots. The south gallery reveals two refectories and a unique 14th-century reading pulpit.

Discover the birth of Blanquette

In the underground cellar, monks invented Blanquette de Limoux in 1531, ancestor of Champagne. The fortified section from the 14th century, with prison and guardroom, now hosts an archaeological museum space.

An enriched tour

Trilingual educational panels line the visit, complemented by a cultural booklet provided upon arrival.