Cloître d'Elne
Discover the stunning Romanesque cloister of Elne, a historical gem featuring intricate marble capitals and an adjacent cathedral.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday heat & crowds
Cloître d'Elne
Best Time
Avoid midday heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the stunning Romanesque cloister of Elne, a historical gem featuring intricate marble capitals and an adjacent cathedral.
"Beautiful and historic site well worth the visit, with free entry for under 25s!"
Free Entry for Youth
:moneywithwings: Under 25s get in free! Great for budget travelers and families.
Explore the Town
:cityscape: Don't miss the charming town of Elne. Plenty of cafes and places to eat nearby.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Romanesque Cloister Capitals
Cloister
Marvel at intricately sculpted marble capitals depicting biblical scenes, flora, and fauna. A true masterpiece of medieval art.
Elne Cathedral
Adjacent to Cloister
Explore the historic cathedral attached to the cloister, offering a glimpse into centuries of religious and architectural history.
History and Archaeology Rooms
Within the complex
Discover the rich past of Elne through exhibits detailing its history and archaeological findings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Exploring the Town
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry for Youth
:moneywithwings: Under 25s get in free! Great for budget travelers and families.
Explore the Town
:cityscape: Don't miss the charming town of Elne. Plenty of cafes and places to eat nearby.
Information Sheets
:pagefacingup: English info sheets available, though some found them a bit confusing.
No On-Site Cafe
:coffee: Bring your own snacks or plan to eat in town, as there's no cafe here.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry for Youth
:moneywithwings: Under 25s get in free! Great for budget travelers and families.
Explore the Town
:cityscape: Don't miss the charming town of Elne. Plenty of cafes and places to eat nearby.
Information Sheets
:pagefacingup: English info sheets available, though some found them a bit confusing.
No On-Site Cafe
:coffee: Bring your own snacks or plan to eat in town, as there's no cafe here.
Cool Interior
:snowflake: The stone structure stays cool inside, a welcome respite on warm days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Cloître d'Elne as a beautiful and historic site, particularly highlighting the intricate Romanesque cloister capitals carved from marble. The free entry for under 25s is a significant plus. Some found the information sheets a bit confusing and noted that the history/archaeology rooms are in French.
"Historical place 800 BC that has to be seen if in the area 😉"
guiyot79
"The medieval clerics of Elne, France, lived in Elne Cathedral's Romanesque cloister. The capitals of the Romanesque cloister display a variety of Biblical figures, plants, and animals. They were sculpted from blue-viewed white marble. One depicts Adam and Eve."
David Stanley
"Beautiful and historic site well worth the visit. Under 25's are free.
While here spend some time in the beautiful town, plenty of places to eat or sip some coffee while watching the world go by."
Paul Wade
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cloître d'Elne is located in the town of Elne, in the Pyrénées-Orientales department of France. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options might include local buses from Perpignan.
Yes, there is typically parking available in the vicinity of the cloister and cathedral in Elne. It's advisable to check local signage for specific parking areas and any associated fees.
Absolutely! The town of Elne itself is worth exploring, with its charming streets, local shops, and cafes. You can enjoy the town's atmosphere even if you don't enter the cloister.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours for Cloître d'Elne can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Entry to Cloître d'Elne is free for visitors under 25 years old. For others, there is an admission fee. Specific pricing details should be confirmed on their official channels.
For general visits, booking tickets in advance is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check if there are any special events or group visit policies that might necessitate pre-booking.
Yes, a significant discount is that entry is free for all visitors under 25 years old. Check for any other potential group or family discounts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find the stunning Romanesque cloister with its detailed marble capitals, the adjacent Elne Cathedral, and rooms dedicated to the history and archaeology of the region.
Children might appreciate the visual aspects of the sculpted capitals and the historical context. The free entry for under 25s makes it an accessible outing.
Photography is generally permitted inside Cloître d'Elne for personal use. However, it's always best to observe any posted signs or ask staff if you're unsure about specific restrictions.
Yes, visitors have noted the availability of an outside toilet for visitors, which is a convenient amenity.
Information sheets are available in English, though some visitors found them a bit confusing to interpret visually. The history and archaeology rooms are primarily in French.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there is no cafe or restaurant on-site at Cloître d'Elne. Visitors are advised to plan their meals in the town of Elne.
The town of Elne offers numerous places to eat, from casual cafes to restaurants. You can enjoy a coffee or a meal while watching the local life go by.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember that the history and archaeology rooms are mainly in French, so focus on the visual aspects of the cloister and cathedral. The town of Elne also offers a pleasant environment for a stroll, with places to grab a snack or ice cream, making it a well-rounded family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the charming town of Elne, which offers affordable dining options and a chance to experience local life without additional costs. Since there's no on-site cafe, packing your own snacks and water can further help manage expenses.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of the Cloister Capitals
These capitals offer a unique window into the beliefs and worldview of the 11th and 12th centuries. The quality of the carving and the preservation of these pieces are remarkable, especially considering their age. Visitors often find themselves captivated by the sheer craftsmanship and the stories embedded within the stone. It's a highlight that truly sets the Cloître d'Elne apart.
A Glimpse into Elne's Past
Visitors can learn about the evolution of Elne from its ancient roots through to its medieval significance. The Elne Cathedral, attached to the cloister, also stands as a testament to the town's enduring historical importance. Exploring these elements together provides a more comprehensive understanding of the site's rich heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit