Cathédrale de Maguelone, Montpellier

This historic site is situated four kilometers (two miles) west of Palavas between the sea and lagoons on a small rise surrounded by vines. The earliest settlements on this site date from before Roman times. The 11th Century saw the building of the monastery that merited being called "the second church of Rome." From the 13th Century, however, the power and influence of Maguelone declined and after the bishop's seat was transferred to Montpellier in 1536, the site was gradually abandoned. In the 19th-century restoration work began and now a major part of the ancient cathedral is open to the public, offering a peaceful haven from the summer heat.

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