Cadouin, Perigord Noir
Pretty medieval village featuring a 12th Century abbey in the east of the Dordogne
A small but beautiful medieval village built around the Cadoudin Abbey, constructed by the Cistercians in the 12th century. It's situated very close to the neighbouring larger town of Le Buisson de Cadouin
Situated close to the Dordogne river within the commune of Le-Buisson-de-Cadouin, which is home to a major rail junction with connections to Bordeaux, Sarlat-la-Caneda, Agen and Perigueux.
The impressive and well-preserved abbey in Cadouin is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage locations, is on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route and is one of the best examples in the region. Surrounded by forests which offer lots of outdoor activity options, this attractive village is full of cute streets with shops selling locally-produced gifts and pottery.
History & Culture in Le Buisson de Cadouin
The commune of Le-Buisson-de-Cadouin, in which the village of Cadouin resides, came to fruition over the last century as the various neighbouring communes changed names and merged together, finally forming the current commune in 1974.
Cadouin's abbey was founded in 1115 by Robert d'Arbrissel and then taken over by Cistercian monks in 1119. It became a pilgrim sight due to a piece of cloth that is said to have been a part of Christ's shroud. Originating from Egypt in the 11th century the shroud itself is on display in the abbey. Naturally the abbey became part of the pilgrim route to Saint Jacques de Compostelle in Spain. Eleanor of Aquitaine and Richard the Lionheart were amongst some of the pilgrims to visit the abbey.
Sights & Attractions in Le Buisson de Cadouin
Naturally the abbey is of particular historical interest here, but it's also a beautiful building and worth exploring to get a feel for the medieval life that once existed here.
If you're in the area then a visit to the nearby caves of Les Grottes de Maxange is a must. A tranquil underground experience in a cave that was only recently discovered. There are sure to be more findings and explorations of these caves in years to come.
Sights in Le Buisson de Cadouin
See all Sights & Sites-
Gouffre de Proumeyssac, Le Bugue
The largest cave in the Périgord region, close to the pretty and tranquil town of Le Bugue. Proumeyssac has a vast subterranean grotto reaching 40 metres in height.
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Les Jardins Panoramiques, Limeuil
This beautiful and vast area has been split into themed garden areas, with interpretive trails running through them to both educate and add to the enjoyment of visitors.
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Les Bambous de Planbuisson, Le Buisson de Cadouin
With nearly 200 species of bamboo and 210 other grasses from around the world as well as rare trees and shrubs, perennials, annuals, herbs and wild, this is a truely wonderful collection.
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Chapelle Saint-Martin, Limeuil
The church at Saint-Martin is distinguished for its original frescoes, which can be foudn inside, and its dedication stone.
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Grottes de Maxange, Le Buisson-de-Cadouin
These caves were discovered in 2000 by quarrying work and contain a unique concentration of calcite formations.
Events in Le Buisson de Cadouin
Cadouin hosts a medieval festival every year in August. This is a great time to visit the town and many people will be dressed in medieval costume...maybe you could join them.
