Collegiate Church of Saint-Julien de Brioude

A first sanctuary was built here, erected on an ancient Roman temple. Tradition mentions that Emperor Avitus (395-457) was buried in this place. That primitive building was destroyed by a Burgundian invasion at the end of the 5th century. Nevertheless, the cult continued, and by 649 there is evidence of an abbot. Later, sources mention a possible destruction caused by the Saracens. The site was supposedly restored around 824 by Count Bérenger of Brioude, possibly related to Louis the Pious. In the 9th century, Brioude was under the control of Bernard Plantevelue (†886), Count of Auvergne.

Several important figures were linked to the canons of Brioude: Odilo, fifth abbot of Cluny; Cunabertus, founder of Chanteuges (Haute-Loire); Robert de Turlande, founder of La Chaise-Dieu (Haute-Loire), and Pierre de Chavanon, founder of the Abbey of Pébrac (Haute-Loire), among others. Brioude resisted the monastic reforms of the period, maintaining its independence, social standing, and particular way of life. It depended directly on the Holy See until the creation of the diocese of Saint-Flour, when it became part of it. In 1342 the title of abbot was abolished, replaced by that of provost, and the house was secularised. The collegiate church was dissolved during the Revolution.

The current building largely dates from the 11th and 12th centuries, with later modifications and restorations. Its plan consists of three naves of seven bays, without a transept. The semicircular apse has five radial chapels. The nave has two porches attached to the north and south, as well as minor annexes. The present façade dates from the 19th century. Around the church once stood other collegiate buildings, including the canons’ residences.