The Chartreuse Port-Sainte-Marie, founded in 1219, on the banks of the Sioule in a protected natural setting, is the only medieval charterhouse in Auvergne. This monastery marked the history of Combrailles for more than five centuries.
Abandoned during the Revolution, one can now walk through the remains of this old charterhouse to discover the organization of a Carthusian monastery and how hermit monks lived in this community. The site is listed as a historic monument because of its archaeological potential. Guided tours are available every Thursday in summer, and on request, all year round for groups.
The association of Friends of the Charterhouse ensures the protection of this site and initiates artistic, cultural and heritage activities.
The Charterhouse has made its mark on economic and cultural history throughout Combrailles, and as far as Limagne, for more than five centuries. Abandoned to the Revolution, its goods were scattered, in particular, in the neighboring churches (Manzat, Pontgibaud). Today, the remains of the monument highlighted by the Friends of the Charterhouse association, allow us to understand the architectural organization of a Charterhouse. The site, the medieval layers of which remain untouched, has a major archaeological potential for understanding the Carthusian architectural evolution.
The association of the Friends of the Charterhouse Port Ste Marie, has been ensuring for more than forty years the safeguard and the enhancement of the site via volunteer projects. Each year, cultural and artistic projects are undertaken, in particular with the children of the Combrailles schools who, along with local artists, create items which are installed on the site for the summer period, alongside a short story competition and an artistic competition.
Visits with workshops can be offered to school or peri-educational structures. Educational tools are available on the association's website.
The association's volunteers offer guided tours every Thursday and Sunday afternoon during the summer period and on request all year round for groups. These visits can be supplemented by hikes combining heritage discovery and discovery of the natural environment of the Sioule valley.
During the summer period, you can explore old games, a box of books and undertake step by step watercolour painting.
- The association is committed to the development and rational safeguarding of the natural heritage of the site located in the Nature 2000 area. It offers information, workshops, popular awareness games on biodiversity, local fauna and flora.
From 01/01 to 31/12/2024, daily.
Open 24 hours a day.
Play area open from Easter to All Saints' Day.
Guided tours in July and August from 10am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm on Thursdays and 2pm to 5pm on Sundays.
- Michelin guide
- Le Routard guide
