Troglodyte Village of Rochemenier
Village troglodytique de Rochemenier
A farm troglodyte village carved into the limestone around Saumur, revealing the Loire Valley's unique 'underground life.'
The limestone soil around Saumur is soft, and since the Middle Ages farmers have carved houses, barns, and chapels out of the ground. The Troglodyte Village of Rochemenier preserves two underground farmsteads, with about 20 rooms displaying old farming tools and furniture, and a small chapel carved into the rock. It is the best place to understand the cave culture of the Loire Valley. Admission is about €7, and the site is closed in winter. Nearby are the cave zoo in Doué, mushroom caves, and cave restaurants where you can taste the traditional flatbread known as fouées. The village is about 20 km from Saumur and requires a car.
Opening hours
About April–November, 09:30–18:00
Nearby sights
- Caverne Sculptée de Dénezé-sous-Doué
- Bioparc de Doué-la-Fontaine
- Les Perrières
- Troglodytes et Sarcophages
- Collegiate Church of Le Puy-Notre-Dame
- Notre-Dame de Cunault
- Cadre Noir de Saumur
- Château de Montreuil-Bellay