At the heart of the Canigou massif, at an altitude of 1094 metres on a rocky spur which overlooks the Cady Valley, stands the Abbey of Saint-Martin du Canigou, founded in 1001 by a Count of Cerdanya.
Full of serenity, this haven of peace, nestled in a magnificent environment, both peaceful and verdant, is only accessible on foot – about a 40 minute climb – departing from the village of Casteil.
Today occupied by the Béatitudes community, the Abbey of Saint-Martin du Canigou, listed as an Historic Building, has preserved some beautiful reminders of the past: the lower church, mostly underground, dedicated to Our Lady Under the Earth (Notre-Dame-sous-Terre); the higher 11th-century church, consecrated to St Martin; the cloister and its marble capitals...So many gems of Romanesque architecture to admire during a guided tour.
At the approach to the Abbey, a stairway will lead you to a viewpoint from where you will have a breath-taking view over the whole monastery!
