The Prieure de St-Cosme is a religious site famous as the final home of the acclaimed 16th-century French poet Pierre de Ronsard. It now holds a museum that tells his story as well as the interesting past of this priory. Take a look at the poet’s tomb in the pretty gardens and read lines from his remarkable verses.
Leaf through a book on a bench or chair in the relaxing environs of the priory’s gardens. Appreciate the pretty layout of the trees, plants and hedge mazes. Read snippets from Pierre de Ronsard’s poetry, which includes odes and sonnets on the subject of love. Walk through the romantic tunnel of plants to feel like you are in a movie. The beautiful area is popular for wedding photos.
Look inside the museum that is dedicated to the poetry and life of Ronsard. He lived at the priory for the final 20 years of his life from 1565.
Discover the ruins of the priory itself, as you walk through the restored dining hall and library. Take photos of the intriguing furniture that adheres to the 16th-century fashion.
French and English are the official languages at the museum. The priory was founded in 1092 to welcome pilgrims on their way to a church in Spain. Archeological digs are still ongoing.
The priory opens to the public from morning to evening daily apart from Tuesdays in winter, when it is closed. There is an entrance fee with certain discounts and free visits for young children.
The Prieure de St-Cosme is about 2 miles (3.2 kilometres) west of the centre of Tours. Walk along the Loire River or drive for about 10 minutes to reach the priory. It is not far from the Loire Désir canoe club and the Médiathèque de la Riche, where there are concerts and art installations.
