Oratory of Germigny-des-Prés
Oratoire carolingien de Germigny-des-Prés
One of France's oldest churches, built in 806, whose dome preserves rare original Carolingian mosaics, the only ones of their kind surviving in Western Europe.
The Oratory of Germigny-des-Prés was built in 806 by Theodulf, bishop of Orléans and an adviser to Charlemagne. Its Greek-cross plan makes it one of the best-preserved Carolingian buildings in France. The mosaics in the apse dome depict the Ark of the Covenant and two angels, and their gold background still gleams. They are the only surviving original Carolingian mosaics in Western Europe, which makes them extremely precious. Admission is free, and a nearby visitor center provides historical information. It can be combined with Saint-Benoît Abbey and the Château de Sully-sur-Loire as an eastern day trip from Orléans, about 30 km away.
Opening hours
Approx. 9:00 am–7:00 pm (shorter hours in winter)
Nearby sights
- Château & Park of Châteauneuf-sur-Loire
- Abbey of Saint-Benoît-sur-Loire (Fleury Abbey)
- Château de Sully-sur-Loire
- Château de Chamerolles
- Parc Floral de la Source
- Château de La Ferté-Saint-Aubin
- Collégiale Saint-Aignan
- Jardin de l'Évêché