The best traffic-free bike rides around Berry-Bouy

It was therefore under the patronage of "Saint Firmin," the first bishop of Amiens in the 3rd century, who evangelized the land of Méry and became its patron saint after drinking from the miraculous spring that now bears his name, that the church was given in 856 to the Abbey of Saint-Sulpice (formerly the monastery of Notre Dame de la Nef, founded by Saint Sulpice II, known as "the Pious") by the Archbishop of Bourges, Raoul de Turenne, at the behest of Charles the Bald. Like so many others, the church includes parts dating from the 11th and 12th centuries, notably the north wall with a small, high, round-arched window with small voussoirs. The south chapel appears to date from the 14th century, with its mullioned window with trefoil arches at the top and an oculus above it. But the entire apse dates from the late 15th century; it is three-sided and lit by three large windows. The side windows have only one mullion, while the central one has two that intertwine at the top. The apse is vaulted internally, with ribs featuring openwork profiles, resting either on round pilasters or on corbels formed by reclining angels. The keystone of the chancel vault depicts the Eternal Father blessing and holding the orb surmounted by a cross. Also present is a blank escutcheon supported by a bear and a lion (the coat of arms of the Orsini Princes, one of whose members was Abbot of Loroy Abbey). The cornice rests on a torus molding supported by a molding. The original bell tower stood above the first bay of the choir. It was moved closer to the west gable end during the construction of the Sacred Heart Chapel, donated in 1881 by the Clermont-Tonnerre family, who resided at Loroy Abbey. The date 1525 is inscribed on one of the bells. In 1824, Henry François, the priest of Méry-ès-Bois, blessed a second bell. The bell mechanism was electrified on August 23, 1968, by decision of the Municipal Council.

The Catholic parish of Saint Martin is part of the Saint Martin-Menetou Salon, Henrichemont, and Les Aix d'Angillon parish group (more than 30 towns and villages). The parish priest in charge of this large parish is Father Jean Marie Mabiala. He resides at the Saint Martin rectory. For all requests regarding religious services or celebrations (baptisms; catechism; weddings; funerals; other personal, family, or community celebrations; Mass times), please contact the parish office.

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Much more than a city lake... This large lake appears to be a nature reserve, but it was artificially created in the 1970s as a water buffer and recreation area for Bourges. It has since grown into a green oasis where you can spot a surprising number of migratory birds. An added bonus: in summer, concerts and events are regularly held around the lake.

The Romanesque-style village church was built in the 12th century in honor of the monk Dulcardus, Saint Doulchard. The first work of staking out the plasterwork led to some astonishing discoveries. They revealed, especially inside the church, white stones in more or less good condition as well as "pink" stones, the result of a very old fire that destroyed the building. Berry passages were also revealed on each side of the nave as well as a small secondary chapel or apse. This was located behind the choir and was walled up and unused. Having no historical interest, this partition was removed to restore the chapel to its original appearance.

This 11th-century abbey church features a beautiful stone floor and wooden ceiling. Richard II, Archbishop of Bourges and pioneer of the Gregorian Reforms, is buried here.

Walking around Lake Auron is one of the locals' favorite activities. With its 5.5 km circumference, it is an ideal loop for family walks as well as for experienced athletes. Connected to the city center by the green ring road, whether walking, running or cycling, the layout is suitable for all styles of walks. It is not uncommon to come across migratory birds that have taken up residence on the island on your way. The geese and ducks have their own beach, not shy, they will welcome you. For more information: https://www.bourgesberrytourisme.com/2021/08/20/autour-du-lac-dauron/

Majestic, it dominates the city of Bourges. The Saint-Étienne Cathedral, listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1992, is unique in its design. A masterpiece of Gothic art, admirable for its proportions and the unity of its design, it bears witness to the power of Christianity in medieval France. When you take a look at this large ship, you can only be surprised by the length of its nave and the absence of a transept, which mark its uniqueness. The Cathedral houses a rare set of stained glass windows dating from the 13th to the 17th century. Climb the 396 steps of the north tower or "Butter Tower"; at the top of it offers a surprising perspective of the cathedral and a panoramic view of the city. Accessible only in July and August. For more information: bourgesberrytourisme.com/patrimoine-culturel/cathedrale-saint-etienne