Saint-Flour

About

Utilizing the natural defense provided by the volcanic cliffs, Saint-Flour’s historic upper town stands as a fortress-city. Relying on the local volcanic stone for construction, much of the city has a brooding look to it, best exemplified at the Place des Armes. The town’s dark square is dominated by the austere Cathedral of Saint-Pierre. Built in the 15th century, the Cathedral houses an unusual Christ carved from black wood, as well as stained glass windows, frescoes, and a rich treasury. Also in the square are the episcopal palace, which now houses the Museum of the Haute Auvergne, and the imposing Renaissance Maison Consulaire, which is home to the Museum of Art and History.