L'Île-Bouchard

Originally a chapel from the 11th century, the Saint-Gilles church was remodeled and enlarged in the 15th and then in the 19th century. Former priory today classified as an historic monument, this Romanesque building retains its original architecture only the north side and its portal. Visitors can also admire a 12th century nave and bell tower, as well as a Gothic choir rebuilt in the 15th century thanks to donations from King Charles VII. The one which has been the subject of an important pilgrimage since 1947 and an apparition of the Virgin to four little girls would also have welcomed Joan of Arc for a mass.

Also listed as a Historic Monument, the Saint-Léonard priory dates from the first half of the 12th century and is considered to be one of the oldest Romanesque buildings in France. Partly destroyed, today it only unveils its ambulatory with sculpted capitals representing the life of Jesus, Mary and the evangelists, its choir and its radiant chapels.

While strolling through the town, you can also discover the 15th century church of Saint-Maurice, which seduces with its stone spire decorated with sculptures or its flamboyant Renaissance-style naves.

To learn a little more about the region and its mysteries, head to the Musée du Bouchardais, a museum of popular arts and traditions and local history located in the old station of L'Île-Bouchard. Collections of tools, materials and objects from the rural world are exhibited there.

A discovery tour allows you to appreciate all the most beautiful sites in the town with explanatory panels.

The weekly market is held every Tuesday at the end of the afternoon.

Concerts are organized in June on the occasion of the Fête de la Musique.

A republican holiday is proposed in mid-July to celebrate the national holiday.

Fireworks, shows and other activities are organized at the end of the year, in December, to celebrate the Christmas holidays.