Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The former Chartreuse of Rodez came into being in 1513, when its foundation was authorized by letters patent of King Louis XII. Its construction, slowed down by the wars of religion, led to a church consecrated in 1529 by François d'Estaing, bishop of Rodez. Now classified, this church serves as a stable for the national stud, installed on the site in 1809 by decree of Napoleon I.

Rodez's national stud (1809–2017) occupied the site for almost two centuries, transforming monastic buildings into equestrian infrastructures: stables in the former vaulted chapel, forge, saddlery, and ride. The site, marked by a large portal dated 1749 and five circular towers, becomes a high place for the rearing of the Arab horse in France, thanks in particular to the Dormane stallion. Its activity is evolving towards the organisation of cultural events before its final closure in 2017.

Ranked a historic monument in 1942 for its portal, facades, towers and remains of the chapel, the former Chartreuse is today rented by the Departmental Council at Station A, a third-place in the Ruthenian region. The site, located right in the centre of Rodez, retains remarkable elements such as a sundial in the courtyard of honour and a classified stable structure. Its history reflects the changes in a heritage, from religious to equestrian, then to contemporary cultural and social use.

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