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Souterrain de la Règle: A Subterranean Journey Through Limoges' Past

Uncover Limoges' hidden history beneath the surface at the Souterrain de la Règle, a fascinating journey into the city's medieval past.

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Descend beneath the bustling streets of Limoges to explore the Souterrain de la Règle, a network of underground tunnels and chambers dating back to the Middle Ages. These hidden passages, once part of the Abbaye de la Règle, offer a unique glimpse into the city's history, geology, and the lives of its inhabitants.

A brief summary to Souterrain de la Règle

Local tips

  • Book your guided tour in advance through the Limoges Tourist Office, especially during peak season, as space is limited.
  • Wear closed-toe shoes for the tour, as the steps within the Souterrain can be slippery.
  • The Souterrain maintains a cool temperature year-round, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Souterrain de la Règle is located near the Limoges Cathedral, in the Jardins de l'Évêché. From Place de la République, walk southeast along Rue de la Cathédrale. The gardens and entrance to the Souterrain will be on your right, a short walk past the cathedral. The meeting point for the guided tour is provided after booking.

  • Public Transport

    The STCL bus network serves the city of Limoges. Several bus lines stop near the Cathédrale de Limoges, a short walk from the Souterrain de la Règle. Check the STCL website or the Point Bus information center at Place Léon Betoulle for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ticket costs around €1.60.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Limoges. A short taxi ride from the Gare de Limoges-Bénédictins train station to the Souterrain de la Règle will cost approximately €10-€15.

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Discover more about Souterrain de la Règle

Venture into the depths of Limoges and discover the Souterrain de la Règle, a captivating subterranean network that unveils the city's rich medieval past. Located beneath the present-day Jardins de l'Évêché (Bishop's Gardens), these tunnels and chambers formed the cellars of the former Abbaye de la Règle. Constructed primarily between the 11th and 13th centuries, the Souterrain de la Règle showcases a complex architectural design made possible by the region's unique geology. The tunnels often feature two levels, with the first level typically constructed of masonry. These underground spaces served as storage areas for the tightly packed merchant town, providing a cool and secure environment for goods. Some sections of the network even date back to Roman times, including remnants of an aqueduct. During your 30-minute guided tour, knowledgeable guides from the Tourist Office will lead you through the depths, sharing stories of the Souterrain's construction, purpose, and the historical events it has witnessed. Explore the unique architecture and learn about the geological factors that allowed for its creation. The Souterrain de la Règle offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat, with its cool and constant temperatures. However, be sure to wear closed-toe shoes, as the steps can be slippery.

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