“A former mill? You’re looking at the Musée Prieuré du Vieux Logis.”
This unassuming building before you holds a captivating history. It wasn’t always a museum. Once upon a time it was an oil mill. It ground away for years even centuries before finally stopping in the 19th century. Then it became a farm.
But its most interesting transformation came from Reverend Father Alfred Lemerre. He purchased the old farm. He envisioned something more. He transformed it into a priory. He repainted the facade a striking ochre red. He added a porch. He even gave it its current name Vieux Logis. Old House. Quite fitting for a building with such a rich past.
The Reverend Father didn’t stop there. In 1922 he moved in. He designed the interior in the style of the 15th century. He showcased his impressive collection of medieval art and furniture. The Musée Prieuré du Vieux Logis as you see it today is largely a result of his dedication.
Today the thirteen rooms of the Musée Prieuré du Vieux Logis whisper stories of the past. There’s a Gothic hall. A Renaissance-era chamber displays stunning furniture. A kitchen reveals utensils and furnishings from various eras. Upstairs a chapel an oratory and a sacristy invite reflection. Even a private chamber offers a peek into a bygone era.
The Musée Prieuré du Vieux Logis is unique. It’s not just about grand works of art. It’s about the everyday objects. It’s about the lives of those who lived before us. It’s a window into medieval life.
Though the museum itself is open by appointment only through the Musée Masséna its garden offers a unique experience. It’s used for environmental education. Schoolchildren learn about sustainable practices. Local residents even use it as a community garden.
The Musée Prieuré du Vieux Logis. It’s more than a museum. It’s a journey through time. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of preservation. It’s a story waiting to be explored.