DAY TEN
NEUVY-SAINT–SÉPULCHRE – CLUIS
Along the Via Lemovicensis, there are many Romanesque churches. I love the
simplicity of the architecture, the massive thickness of the stonewalls, the spacious
feeling inside and expressive figurative reliefs on the capitals. Whenever a church like
that was open, I visited it. When I entered the church Collégiale Saint Jacques, I was
blown away by its beauty, simplicity and graciousness. This church – a replica of the
Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem – is dedicated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
11th century church St. Jacques
Rotunda (diameter 66 feet) 11 columns on the ground level
This day, I only hiked 7 miles to the next town, Cluis. On my way, I met the typical
donkey of this area, the Grande Noir du Berry.
Le Grande Noir du Berry
Cluis is a charming little town with a 17th century market hall, ruins of a former
castle and a viaduct built for the train, which ran until 1952. Unfortunately, no
trains or busses are going anymore between towns in the French countryside.
Everything is directed to and from Paris.
Les Halles
Le Viaduc de l’Auzon, built in 1899
Remains of the 12th century castle, Cluis-Dessous.
In Cluis, I stayed in a refuge with four other pilgrims I had met before. It was great
to see them again.
Refuge with 3 pilgrims
– Text and photos contributed by Garyo –