Chiché: Chapels, Wall Paintings and Cultural Heritage

A stay in Chiché offers several specific points of interest: historic chapels and wall paintings, the Les bois de Chausserais walking trail, and a saffron farm that welcomes groups by appointment. These attractions differ both in character and in visiting arrangements.

Chapels and Wall Paintings

The Chapelle Saint Nicolas de la Poraire is listed as a historic monument and is a surviving testament to a former Fontevrist priory. Its wall paintings date from the late 12th to the early 13th century. One depicts a rare scene of Herod’s damnation. This gives a visit to the chapel a specific art-historical focus: alongside the history of the former priory, a precisely identified pictorial subject also comes into view.

Visits are free and can be self-guided or led by a guide. Outside the summer opening hours, visits are available by appointment. Check the visiting arrangements before you arrive if you are coming outside the summer opening hours or planning a guided tour.

The former Gothic chapel of Notre Dame de la Recouvrance in Chiché offers another historical perspective. It dates from the 14th or 15th century. In comparison, the wall paintings in the Chapelle Saint Nicolas de la Poraire are considerably earlier: they date from the late 12th to the early 13th century. This allows you to compare two distinct historical periods: the medieval paintings and the later Gothic chapel.

Walking Trail and Organized Hikes

The Les bois de Chausserais walking trail connects bocage landscapes, the Thouaret Valley, and historic remains. Landscape and cultural heritage are thus both part of the route’s character. If you are choosing between an art-historical focus and a hike, the chapels offer a glimpse of architectural history and painting, while the walking trail brings landscape and traces of history together.

The walking trail starts at Place de l'église in Chiché, by the bus stop. This specific starting point helps you locate the beginning of the route. Les Randonnées Chichéennes also organizes hikes in and beyond the commune of Chiché, as well as events related to the environment and cultural heritage. Check dates and participation requirements with the association in advance, especially if you are planning your trip around one of these activities.

A Saffron Farm for Groups

Another local point of interest is Le Safran de la Chaise en Bocage. The saffron farm covers 2 hectares and welcomes groups at the farm by appointment. Planning is part of the visit: arrange your group visit with the farm in advance and confirm the date before you arrive, as visits are by appointment and availability may change. This is an area of 20,000 square metres.

Discover more destinations: Secondigny, Saint-Jouin-de-Marnes, Nueil-Les-Aubiers, La Ferrière-En-Parthenay, Paizay-Le-Chapt, Genneton, Granzay-Gript, Périgné.

For the overview of the wider region: Deux-Sèvres.