The charming village of Saulges, famous for its prehistoric caves, has much more to offer. Indeed, this "Petite Cité de Caractère ®" (Small Town of Character), located just a 20-minute drive from Sainte-Suzanne , takes you on a journey into the heart of history.
What to see in Saulges?
Saulges is full of little treasures like the Saint-Pierre chapel , the Saint-Céneré Oratory , the lime kiln , and so many more. We'll take you on a discovery of this charming village and its must-see attractions!
Vote for Saulges, the French People's Favorite Village
Great news!! Saulges has been selected to represent the Pays de la Loire region in the show "Le Village Préféré des Français" (The French People's Favorite Village).
More than a competition, this participation is an exceptional opportunity to showcase a site that is still little known on a national scale: a village nestled in the heart of a natural valley where heritage, nature and prehistory come together.
Today, we're counting on you to spread the word about this village of character!
Vote for Saulges until March 6th at the following address:
https://participez.france.tv/quiz/1747006_56/.html
01
The Caves of Saulges
Today, there are 22 caves at the Saulges site. Two are open to the public: the Grotte Margot , an adorned cave, and the Grotte Rochefort , a former dwelling cave. You can contact the Museum of Prehistory to make a reservation. If you have an adventurous spirit, don't hesitate to explore the mysterious Grotte de la Chèvre (Goat Cave ) on your own . And if you fancy a stroll through this magnificent Natura 2000 protected site, follow the Japanese stepping stones.
02
The Oratory of Saint-Cénéré
Legend has it that Saint Céneré , a Benedictine monk who settled in Saulges, caused a miraculous spring to gush forth near the Erve River, where his oratory now stands. He also founded a Christian community that built the Church of Saint Peter in the village of Saulges. In the past, the Saint Céneré oratory was a popular pilgrimage site . To refresh yourself, visit the spring located at the foot of the building.
03
St. Peter's Church
This Carolingian church is one of the oldest in France , dating back to the 8th century. Enter the chapel to see the relics of Saint Céneré, a hermit and important figure in the history of Saulges. You will also discover an astonishing collection of 17th- and 18th-century statues in wood , stone, and terracotta, as well as a 15th-century stone cross: the Croix Boissée.
04
Merovingian sarcophagi
During the Gallo-Roman period, a human settlement existed on the Cité plateau, located north of the present-day town, near the ford where the Roman road (Le Mans-Rennes) crossed the Erve River. The modern town of Saulges thus developed on a Merovingian necropolis. This cemetery was undoubtedly that of the inhabitants of the Cité.
05
The Mill of Thévalles
This mill, located 2 km from the village of Saulges, has an exceptional four-level mechanism dating from 1850. Unique in Western France! You can take a guided tour to understand the milling process of the late 19th century.
Download the Saulges discovery trail, labeled a Small Town of Character, to discover this village and its history!
Where to sleep in Saulges?
The Small Towns of Character ® of Coëvrons, in Mayenne
Did you enjoy discovering this Petite Cité de Caractère ®? Stay a little longer; we have others to offer you in the Coëvrons region of Mayenne!
