Moissac, Tarn-et-Garonne

Although the monks eagerly connected its origins to the time of Clovis, monastic life at Moissac began in the 7th century. Yet it was only when Cluny took over in the 11th century that Saint-Peter's of Moissac really entered the world. Located on the pilgrimage route to Compostella, papal support, and some motivated abbots quickly made the abbey into one of the most powerful of the area.

The cloister

The cloister was completed in the first decade of the 12th century, as part of the major overhaul of the abbey, fuelled by the Cluniac affiliation. It is the oldest and largest ensemble of historiated capitals.

The cloister

A renovation of the cloister in the 13th century thankfully preserved the capitals.

Samson and the lion

In the 76 capitals biblical scenes or episodes from the lives of saints alternate with abstract patterns and fantastic animals.

Daniel in the lions' den

Saint Peter

Large reliefs of the apostles decorate the corner piers of the cloister.

The cloister

The cloister and the south portal of Moissac are listed as UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998.

Saint James

As an important stop on the way to Compostela, a portrait of Saint James in Moissac couldn't be overlooked.

The tympanum

The tympanum of the south portal depicts the Second Coming of Christ and is slightly posterior to the cloister (ca. 1115-1130). 24 elders accompany Christ as the kings of this world.

Detail of the tympanum

The prophet Jeremiah

An Old Testament prophet