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Lanterne aux Morts of Cherveix-Cubas

A medieval beacon of remembrance, the Lanterne aux Morts in Cherveix-Cubas guides souls and illuminates centuries of tradition.

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The Lanterne aux Morts (Lantern of the Dead) in Cherveix-Cubas is a fascinating and historically significant monument dating back to the 11th or 12th century. This ancient structure, located in the cemetery of Cubas, is a slender, hollow tower topped with an open pavilion, once used to house a light that guided souls and warded off evil spirits.

A brief summary to Lanterne aux morts Cherveix-cubas

  • 11 Pl. de l'Ordre de Fontevrault, Cherveix-Cubas, 24390, FR
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit at dusk to imagine the lantern illuminated, casting its light across the cemetery.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Château de Hautefort or the caves of Tourtoirac.
  • Take a moment to explore the surrounding cemetery and appreciate the history etched in the tombstones.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Lanterne aux Morts is located within the cemetery of Cherveix-Cubas, adjacent to the church. If you are already in the village center, simply walk towards the church; the cemetery and the Lanterne aux Morts are a short walk away. There are no specific costs associated with walking to the site.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by public transport via the regional bus line 321, disembark at the 'Cubas Bourg' stop. From there, walk towards the village center and follow signs to the church and cemetery, where the Lanterne aux Morts is located. A single bus fare within the region typically costs around €2.

  • Taxi

    From nearby towns like Hautefort or Excideuil, a taxi can take you directly to Cherveix-Cubas. Ask the driver to take you to the church in Cubas; the cemetery and Lanterne aux Morts are right next to it. Taxi fares in this region have a pick-up charge of around €2.40, plus a per-kilometer rate. A short trip from Hautefort might cost between €15-€25.

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Discover more about Lanterne aux morts Cherveix-cubas

The Lanterne aux Morts of Cherveix-Cubas, found in the village cemetery, stands as a testament to medieval beliefs and funerary practices. These 'lanterns of the dead' are found in several regions of France, with this particular example dating back to the 11th or 12th century. The structure is a slender tower, constructed of stone, featuring a hollow interior and topped with an open-air pavilion. Historically, at dusk, a light would be raised within the lantern, often using a pulley system. The purpose of this light was multifaceted. It served as a guide for the souls of the departed, helping them find their way to eternal rest. It was also believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the living from the fear of the dead. Some historians suggest that these lanterns may have also marked important routes, such as those leading to Santiago de Compostela. The Lanterne aux Morts of Cherveix-Cubas is a classified historical monument, recognized for its unique architectural and cultural significance. Its design is distinct, as the light was likely raised using an external ladder rather than an internal chain. The surrounding cemetery adds to the atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the past with its ancient tombstones and monuments. Today, the Lanterne aux Morts stands as a reminder of the traditions and beliefs of the Middle Ages, inviting contemplation and providing a tangible link to the history of the region.

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