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Cluny
Cluny abbey is in the Saône-et-Loire department of Burgundy.
At Cluny it is the sense of history that is as important as the place itself, attractive as it is. For a period of time in the two centuries from when the monastery was founded (910 AD) Cluny was second only to Rome in the religious influence it held over the Europe of the time, and the abbots from Cluny were important players on the international political scene.
The church at Cluny, once the largest in the western world, was dismantled in 1810, but the parts that remain are still significant and interesting, and include the belfry, granary and southern transept. the highlight of a visit now is an ascent of the 'Tour des Fromages' for great views over the abbey itself, the village and the surrounding Burgundy countryside.
The museum of art and archaeology at the abbey (entrance included in the price of abbey admission) is both interesting and instructive as an aid to understanding what the abbey was like 800 years ago. The Hotel Dieu should also be visited, time permitting - built in 1646 it houses a chapel, and the rooms where the sick were treated.
The village of Cluny grew up around the abbey itself, and is a very pretty village, with a few streets of extremely old and beautiful houses.
Lastly, for any horse lovers, there is a French 'Haras National' behind the abbey. A national centre for breeding and training purebred horses, the haras can be visited and there are frequently events held where the horses can be admired 'in action'.
Cluny: tourist information, map, travel plans and gites
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Map of Cluny, France |
Places to visit - Cluny
Explore places within about 70 kilometres on a map at Visit Cluny.
Some of the closer places are listed below (distances from Cluny are approximate and direct - as the crow flies. Only places listed on the france this way site are shown!)
Information and photos
This travel guide has information, holidays and photos of Cluny when available. If you have any photos or relevant information please send them to us! Full credit will be given if they are used.