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Origin and history

The former Abbatial Palace of Rocamadour, today a sacred art museum, corresponds to an architectural ensemble built by Jean-Baptiste Chevalt in the 19th century. It includes an eastern wing adjacent to the chapel Saint-Jean-Baptiste, served by two screw stairs, as well as a body of passage extended by a southern wing. Few medieval remains remain, with the exception of the outer elevation of the eastern wing, partially preserved at the height of the base. The facades on the square were reconstructed by partially resuming the original arrangements, with re-use of modillons and window supports.

The drawings, engravings and photographs of the 19th century, as well as the records of Jean-Baptiste Chevalt, make it possible to know the remains disappeared. An analysis by Jean Rocacher (1979) suggests that the body of passage over the large staircase had two residential levels, with broken column and arched bays. A hall mentioned in a 1223 charter, located in the eastern wing, attests to a building dating back to the early 13th century. The windows of the passing body could date from the same time.

The palace served as a residence for the abbots of Rocamadour, then for the bishops of Tulle after 1317. Damaged after the Hundred Years War and despite repairs in the 17th century, it was in ruins in the 18th century. In 1868, the bishop of Cahors, Alfred Grimardias, decided on an almost total reconstruction, preserving only the original "character and physiognomy". The works, led by Jean-Baptiste Chevalt, were completed around 1872, but the building was never occupied by the bishop, preferring the castle of Rocamadour.

The present museum occupies a part of the Abbatial Palace, including the "heater of the monks", whose windows, similar to those of the eastern wing, were recreated by Chevalt. The medieval remains, although rare, offer a partial testimony of 13th century architecture, while the 19th century reconstructions reflect a romantic interpretation of heritage.

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