Rochemenier: A Journey into France's Troglodyte Past

Discover Rochemenier, a captivating troglodyte village in the Loire Valley, offering a unique journey into centuries of underground living and rural French traditions.

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Rochemenier Village Troglodytique

Venture into the heart of the Loire Valley and discover Rochemenier, a captivating troglodyte village offering a unique glimpse into centuries of underground living. Carved into the 'tuffeau' stone, these remarkable dwellings showcase the ingenuity of past inhabitants who transformed caves into homes, farms, and even a chapel. Explore the well-preserved underground rooms, furnished with period tools and artifacts, and imagine life as it was lived within these subterranean walls. Rochemenier provides an immersive experience, blending history, architecture, and rural traditions, making it a must-see destination for those seeking an authentic and unforgettable French adventure. The village offers a refreshing coolness in the summer and a surprisingly cozy atmosphere in the winter, making it a year-round destination.

A brief summary to Rochemenier Village Troglodytique

14 Rue du Musée, Louresse-Rochemenier, 49700, FR
+33241591815
Visit website

Local tips

Dress warmly, as the underground environment maintains a cool temperature year-round.
Check the opening hours before you go, especially during the off-season.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the village and its underground dwellings.
Combine your visit with a meal at one of the local troglodyte restaurants for a truly immersive experience.
Consider visiting other troglodyte sites in the area, such as those in Doué-la-Fontaine or Turquant, to gain a broader perspective on this unique architectural style.

Getting There

Driving

From Doué-la-Fontaine, Rochemenier is approximately a 10-minute drive. Follow the D761 towards Louresse-Rochemenier. Once in the village, follow signs for the Village Troglodytique. A large public parking area is available about 150 meters from the museum entrance. Parking is free.
Public Transport

The Anjoubus line 5 connects Angers to Louresse-Rochemenier, Doué-la-Fontaine and Montreuil-Bellay. Check the Anjoubus website for the latest schedules and stops. From the Louresse-Rochemenier bus stop, it's a short walk to the Village Troglodytique, following signs for the museum.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxi or ride-share services are available from nearby towns such as Saumur or Doué-la-Fontaine. A taxi from Saumur to Rochemenier would cost approximately €40-€50. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Rochemenier Village Troglodytique

Rochemenier, nestled in the Anjou region of the Loire Valley, presents a mesmerizing journey into the world of troglodyte dwellings. This unique village, a testament to human ingenuity and adaptation, invites visitors to explore a network of underground homes and farms carved directly into the soft 'tuffeau' stone. Unlike troglodyte sites built into cliffs, Rochemenier's dwellings are excavated on a plain, making it a particularly rare and fascinating example of this architectural style. The history of Rochemenier stretches back to the Middle Ages, with the oldest settlements dating back to the 13th century. The caves were initially created by quarrying the 'tuffeau' stone, a sedimentary limestone used extensively in the construction of grand cathedrals and houses throughout the Loire Valley. Over time, villagers began to expand these excavations, transforming them into functional and comfortable living spaces. By the 17th and 18th centuries, Rochemenier had evolved into a thriving troglodyte community, with approximately 40 underground farms and over 250 rooms. Today, the Rochemenier Village Troglodytique serves as a living museum, offering an intimate glimpse into the daily lives of its former residents. Visitors can explore two meticulously preserved underground farms, complete with furnished bedrooms, animal sheds, storage areas, and even a wine cellar. The homes are filled with authentic artifacts, tools, and photographs, providing a tangible connection to the past. Imagine the families who once gathered around the central fireplace in the main living room, or the farmers who tended to their animals in the cool, subterranean stables. The troglodyte chapel of Sainte-Anne, dating back to the 13th century, stands as a testament to the enduring faith of the community. The chapel's simple yet elegant design, with its arches, cross, and niches carved into the rock, creates a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Light filtering through openings in the stone adds to the chapel's mystical charm, making it a truly special place to reflect on the history and spirituality of Rochemenier. Exploring Rochemenier is an immersive experience that engages all the senses. The cool, consistent temperature of the underground environment provides a welcome respite from the summer heat, while the soft, diffused light creates a sense of tranquility. The sounds of dripping water and the echoes of footsteps add to the village's unique atmosphere, transporting visitors to another time and place. Knowledgeable guides offer tours in French, with English handouts available, providing insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of Rochemenier. Beyond its historical and architectural significance, Rochemenier offers a glimpse into the rural traditions of the Anjou region. The village's former residents were primarily farmers, cultivating the land above and raising livestock in their underground farms. The troglodyte dwellings provided natural insulation, keeping the inhabitants cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and offering protection from the elements. The village's unique way of life fostered a strong sense of community, with families working together to sustain themselves and preserve their traditions. For those seeking a deeper understanding of troglodyte culture, Rochemenier serves as an excellent starting point for exploring other troglodyte sites in the Loire Valley. Nearby locations such as Doué-la-Fontaine and Turquant also boast fascinating underground dwellings, each with its own unique history and character. Exploring these sites provides a broader perspective on the troglodyte phenomenon and its significance in the region's cultural heritage. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture buff, or simply seeking a unique and memorable travel experience, Rochemenier offers something for everyone. Its well-preserved underground dwellings, rich history, and immersive atmosphere make it a truly special destination that will leave a lasting impression. Step back in time and discover the secrets of Rochemenier, a hidden gem in the heart of the Loire Valley. Consider visiting the two restaurants located less than 300 meters from the museum: Les Délices de la Roche and Les Caves de la Genevraie. At 1km from the museum, the restaurant La Douceur Angevine is open all year round on weekdays for lunch.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Marguerite d'Anjou Statue De Paul Belmondo

32.6 km

A tribute to Queen Margaret of Anjou, this statue by Paul Belmondo stands in Angers, France, honoring her strength and historical significance.

Marguerite d'Anjou Statue De Paul Belmondo

Former Convent of the Baumette

32.7 km

Discover a 15th-century convent in Angers with stunning views, a rock-carved church, and serene gardens, offering a unique historical escape.

Logis Barrault

32.7 km

Explore Angers' oldest mansion, Logis Barrault, now a fine arts museum, showcasing centuries of art and history.

Jardin des plantes d'Angers

32.8 km

Discover Angers' enchanting Jardin des Plantes: a historic botanical garden offering a tranquil escape with diverse flora and charming landscapes.

Place Sainte-Croix

32.8 km

Discover Angers' medieval heart at Place Sainte-Croix: history, architecture, and vibrant culture converge in this charming plaza.

Abbaye Toussaint d'Angers

32.8 km

Discover the Abbaye Toussaint d'Angers: Where a historic abbey provides a stunning backdrop for the sculptures of David d'Angers.

Palais Episcopal

32.9 km

Explore Angers' Palais Episcopal: A historic palace showcasing centuries of religious and architectural heritage next to the Saint-Maurice Cathedral.

Office de Tourisme - Destination Angers

32.9 km

Your gateway to exploring Angers and the Loire Valley: expert advice, guided tours, local products, and essential visitor services.

Made In Angers

32.9 km

Explore Angers like a local with Made In Angers, your premier sightseeing tour agency for immersive cultural experiences and historical adventures.

Cité médiévale

33.0 km

Step back in time and explore Angers' Cité Médiévale, a charming quarter of cobblestone streets and medieval architecture next to the Château d'Angers.

Ancienne ville d'Angers, Angers

33.0 km

Discover the enchanting Ancienne Ville of Angers: a historical treasure trove with medieval streets, architectural gems, and captivating cultural experiences.

Ancien couvent des frères Sacs (et des Augustins).

33.7 km

Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Ancien couvent des frères Sacs, a captivating landmark in Angers, France.

Ancien couvent des frères Sacs (et des Augustins).

Château d'Oiron

35.4 km

Explore the enchanting Château d'Oiron, a captivating museum and castle blending art, history, and stunning architecture in the heart of France.

Château de Glénay

41.7 km

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Château de Glénay, a hidden gem in the heart of France's picturesque countryside.

Château de ussé

44.7 km

Discover the enchanting Château de Ussé in the Loire Valley, a historical landmark that inspired the tale of Sleeping Beauty.

Unmissable attractions to see

Hélice Terrestre of l'Orbière

13.1 km

Explore a troglodyte village transformed into a monumental sculpture. Experience art within the earth at Hélice Terrestre in the Loire Valley.

Musée du Champignon

14.2 km

Explore the enchanting world of mushrooms at the Musée du Champignon in Saumur, where nature meets culinary delights in an engaging museum.

Château de Montreuil-Bellay

15.4 km

Discover a millennium of history at Château de Montreuil-Bellay, a majestic fortress and wine estate in the heart of the Loire Valley.

Château de Montsabert

16.4 km

Explore a medieval fortress with Renaissance flair at Château de Montsabert in the Loire Valley. Open seasonally for guided tours and exhibitions.

Loire Evasion

17.0 km

Discover the Loire Valley's beauty with boat tours on traditional Loire River boats. Experience unforgettable moments on the UNESCO-listed Loire River.

Château de Saumur

17.1 km

Explore the enchanting Château de Saumur, a majestic castle and museum offering stunning views and rich history in the heart of the Loire Valley.

Château de Brissac

17.7 km

Discover the grandeur of France's tallest castle, Château de Brissac, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and ghostly legends in the heart of the Loire Valley.

GRATIEN & MEYER

18.6 km

Discover the art of Loire Valley sparkling wine at Gratien & Meyer, where tradition meets innovation in historic cellars with breathtaking views of the Loire.

Château de Brézé

19.2 km

Explore a Renaissance château with a fascinating underground fortress in the Loire Valley, boasting deep dry moats and centuries of winemaking tradition.

Loire Odyssée - Maison de Loire en Anjou

19.8 km

Explore the Loire River's natural beauty and cultural heritage through interactive exhibits, cruises, and nature outings in Loire-Authion.

Loire Odyssée - Maison de Loire en Anjou

Château De Parnay

22.4 km

Discover the historic Château De Parnay in the Loire Valley: explore ancient cellars, taste organic Saumur-Champigny wines, and experience the legacy of Antoine Cristal.

Château de Parnay - Caveau de dégustation

23.0 km

Discover the historic Château de Parnay in the Loire Valley: taste organic Saumur-Champigny wines, explore ancient cellars, and wander through the unique Clos d'Entre les Murs.

Château de Parnay - Caveau de dégustation

Séquoia Arbre le plus grand du maine et loire

25.8 km

Discover the majestic Séquoia in Les Ponts-de-Cé, one of France's largest and oldest giant sequoias, a true natural wonder of the Loire Valley.

Séquoia Arbre le plus grand du maine et loire

Château de Montgeoffroy

26.3 km

Experience 18th-century French elegance at Château de Montgeoffroy, a remarkably preserved family estate in the Loire Valley.

Musée de l'Ardoise

27.9 km

Discover the history of slate mining in Anjou at the Musée de l'Ardoise, a unique journey into the heart of French industrial heritage.

Essential places to dine

Les Dames De La Loire

9.1 km

Experience authentic French cuisine at Les Dames De La Loire, where every dish tells a story of culinary tradition and passion.

Le Castellane Restaurant - Younan Collection

13.5 km

Experience exquisite French cuisine at Le Castellane Restaurant in Gennes-Val-de-Loire - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

Le Castellane Restaurant - Younan Collection

Reflets de Loire

19.7 km

Experience exquisite French cuisine at Reflets de Loire in Loire-Authion, where every dish celebrates local flavors amidst stunning scenery.

La Table de la Bergerie

22.7 km

Experience exquisite French cuisine at La Table de la Bergerie in Bellevigne-en-Layon - a true culinary treasure in the heart of France.

Loire&Sens au Fief de la Thioire

23.1 km

Discover exquisite French cuisine and wellness retreats at Loire&Sens au Fief de la Thioire in the beautiful Loire Valley.

LOIRE GOURMANDE SAS

24.2 km

Experience the essence of French cuisine at Loire Gourmande – where local flavors meet exquisite wines in Turquant's charming setting.

Mémé dans les orties

32.1 km

Experience authentic French cuisine at Mémé dans les orties in Angers - where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.

CHEZ PAUL

32.3 km

Experience gourmet burgers at Chez Paul in Angers - where fresh ingredients meet exceptional flavors in a cozy atmosphere.

Restaurant Envol

32.4 km

Discover exquisite haute French cuisine at Restaurant Envol in Angers - an unforgettable culinary journey awaits.

Le Mail Restaurant - Cuisine Bistronomique - Angers

32.4 km

Experience exquisite bistronomic dining at Le Mail Restaurant in Angers – where traditional French cuisine meets modern flair.

Le Mail Restaurant - Cuisine Bistronomique - Angers

Le 15 Gourmand

32.4 km

Discover the exquisite flavors of France at Le 15 Gourmand in Angers - where culinary artistry meets warm hospitality.

Restaurant La Boucherie

32.5 km

Experience the rich flavors of French cuisine at La Boucherie - Angers' premier destination for meat lovers.

Brasserie de la Gare

32.5 km

Experience authentic French cuisine at Brasserie de la Gare in Angers - where tradition meets vibrant culinary artistry.

Le Relais

32.5 km

Discover authentic French cuisine at Le Relais in Angers - where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

KAZUMI

32.5 km

Experience the exquisite blend of French and Japanese cuisine at KAZUMI in Angers—where culinary artistry meets cultural fusion.

Explore Le Petit Souk Angers, a delightful gift shop offering unique toys, home goods, and children's treasures in the heart of the city.

Discover La Cave de la Trinquette, Angers' premier bar for exquisite wines, craft beers, and lively music, set in a vibrant atmosphere.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

The Beach Club Café (Night Bar Angers)

32.7 km

Discover the electrifying ambiance of The Beach Club Café in Angers, where nightlife meets vibrant social experiences.

La Chapelle

32.8 km

Discover La Chapelle, Angers' premier disco club, where electrifying music and vibrant nightlife come together for an unforgettable experience.

Soleil Café

32.8 km

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Soleil Café, a vibrant disco club and bar in Angers that promises unforgettable experiences.

Le Carré

33.0 km

Discover the heart of Angers' nightlife at Le Carré, where electrifying beats and vibrant crowds create an unforgettable experience.

Le FEELING Club

33.0 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Angers at Le FEELING Club, the ultimate destination for dance and entertainment in a stylish atmosphere.

Le New Yorkais

33.1 km

Discover the lively nightlife of Angers at Le New Yorkais, where vibrant music and delicious drinks create unforgettable evenings.

T'es Rock Coco, Bistrot Culturel

33.4 km

Discover Angers' cultural gem, T'es Rock Coco, a lively bistro bar with live music, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere for all music lovers.

L'insolite Club Privé

33.5 km

Discover Angers' exciting nightlife at L'insolite Club Privé, where vibrant beats and a lively atmosphere await every night.

MID'STAR Angers

33.7 km

Discover the energy and excitement of MID'STAR Angers, a top night club destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences in the heart of the city.

Disothèque club-privé LE ST MARTIN

37.7 km

Discover the pulsating nightlife of Le St Martin Disco Club, where music and dance create unforgettable experiences in Saint-Martin-du-Fouilloux.

VIP CLUB

37.9 km

Discover the electrifying nightlife at VIP Club in Benais, where the music is alive and the dance floor is waiting for you.

Light Club - Villeperdue

71.5 km

Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Villeperdue at Light Club, a premier destination for music, dance, and unforgettable moments.

La Fabrika - Tours

75.2 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Tours at La Fabrika, a unique blend of Latin American cuisine and lively club atmosphere.

Xtrem Club

75.2 km

Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Xtrem Club, a premier nightlife destination in Monsireigne that offers live music, cocktails, and unforgettable experiences.

La Suite Club

75.8 km

Discover the pulse of Tours' nightlife at La Suite Club, where music, dancing, and vibrant energy create unforgettable memories.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Rochemenier: A Journey into France's Troglodyte Past

A brief summary to Rochemenier Village Troglodytique

Local tips

Getting There

Driving

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Unlock the Best of Rochemenier Village Troglodytique

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Rochemenier Village Troglodytique

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Marguerite d'Anjou Statue De Paul Belmondo

Former Convent of the Baumette

Logis Barrault

Jardin des plantes d'Angers

Place Sainte-Croix

Abbaye Toussaint d'Angers

Palais Episcopal

Office de Tourisme - Destination Angers

Made In Angers

Cité médiévale

Ancienne ville d'Angers, Angers

Ancien couvent des frères Sacs (et des Augustins).

Château d'Oiron

Château de Glénay

Château de ussé

Unmissable attractions to see

Hélice Terrestre of l'Orbière

Musée du Champignon

Château de Montreuil-Bellay

Château de Montsabert

Loire Evasion

Château de Saumur

Château de Brissac

GRATIEN & MEYER

Château de Brézé

Loire Odyssée - Maison de Loire en Anjou

Château De Parnay

Château de Parnay - Caveau de dégustation

Séquoia Arbre le plus grand du maine et loire

Château de Montgeoffroy

Musée de l'Ardoise

Essential places to dine

Les Dames De La Loire

Le Castellane Restaurant - Younan Collection

Reflets de Loire

La Table de la Bergerie

Loire&Sens au Fief de la Thioire

LOIRE GOURMANDE SAS

Mémé dans les orties

CHEZ PAUL

Restaurant Envol

Le Mail Restaurant - Cuisine Bistronomique - Angers

Le 15 Gourmand

Restaurant La Boucherie

Brasserie de la Gare

Le Relais

KAZUMI

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Musée "Aux Anciens Commerces"

Saumur Le Centre

Loire Créateurs LA BOUTIQUE - Articles de Créateurs

La Galerie - Espace Anjou

Flying Tiger Copenhagen Angers

L'Atelier Coquille

Fishbrain BOUTIQUE

DUNE BOUTIQUE ANGERS

La Fée Maraboutée

Galeries Lafayette Angers

Palais des Thés

Kawaii KILO SHOP

Magasins Galeries Lafayette

L'Esprit Du Chaudron (Angers)

Le petit Souk Angers

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Le Falstaff

Ginkgo Bar

Maréchal's Pub