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Chapelle Saint-Aurélien: A Butcher's Patron in Limoges

Discover the Chapelle Saint-Aurélien in Limoges: a historic chapel with a rich artistic heritage, maintained by the city's butchers' guild.

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The Chapelle Saint-Aurélien, nestled in Limoges' historic Boucherie district, is a 15th-century chapel dedicated to Saint Aurélien, the patron saint of butchers. Enlarged in the 17th century, it boasts a unique chestnut shingle onion dome and houses a rich collection of religious artifacts, reflecting the enduring faith of the local butchers' guild.

A brief summary to Chapelle Saint Aurélien

  • 2 Rue Saint-Aurélien, Limoges, 87000, FR

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the interior details and stained glass.
  • Look for the green-and-white flag of the Butchers' Guild inside, a symbol of their pride and long-standing connection to the chapel.
  • Take a stroll through the surrounding Boucherie district, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Chapelle Saint-Aurélien is located in the Quartier de la Boucherie (Butchers' District) in the old town of Limoges. From the Gare de Limoges-Bénédictins, it's approximately a 20-minute walk. Head west from the station towards Place de la République, then continue through the historic streets, following signs for the city center and the Boucherie district. The chapel is located on a small square off Rue de la Boucherie.

  • Public Transport

    From Gare de Limoges-Bénédictins, take a local STCL bus towards the city center. Several bus lines stop near Place de la République, a short walk from the Chapelle Saint-Aurélien. Check the STCL website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. From July 1st, 2025, public transport is free on weekends. A single ticket during the week costs around €1.60.

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Discover more about Chapelle Saint Aurélien

Chapelle Saint-Aurélien, a charming and historically rich chapel, is located in the heart of Limoges' old Boucherie (Butchery) district. Built in 1471, the chapel is dedicated to Saint Aurélien, the second bishop of Limoges and the patron saint of the city's butchers. Originally constructed to house the relics of Saint Aurélien, the chapel stands on the site of a former church, Saint-Cessateur. In the 17th century, the chapel was expanded, with the choir being rebuilt in the Baroque style. A distinctive feature is its chestnut shingle onion dome, a regional architectural characteristic. During the French Revolution, the chapel was acquired by the butchers' guild, who have maintained it since. Inside, visitors can admire a collection of sacred art and religious furnishings donated over the centuries. Noteworthy items include a statue of Saint Catherine, a sculpture depicting Saint Anne with the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus, and a Baroque altarpiece featuring a copy of Raphael's Transfiguration, which conceals the shrine holding Saint Aurélien's relics. The facade is adorned with statues of Saint John the Evangelist and Saint Catherine of Alexandria.

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