Riom
Located on the edge of the Limagne plain and the majestic volcanoes of Auvergne, Riom is a city with an exceptional history. The former capital of the Duchy of Auvergne and a historical rival of its neighbor Clermont-Ferrand, this city of art and history surprises visitors with the richness of its architecture sculpted from lava.
Adorned in shades of gray and black thanks to the famous Volvic stone, Riom reveals an elegant and refined atmosphere where each monument recounts the splendor of the dukes and the power of royal justice. This comprehensive guide will take you on a journey to discover its treasures.
Renaissance stroll and mysterious private mansions
Riom's historic center is a regular grid of narrow streets lined with superb Renaissance facades, punctuated by unexpected inner courtyards.
The Hôtel Guymoneau: Undoubtedly the most fascinating residence in the city. Its inner courtyard conceals a spiral staircase and astonishing sculptures, notably the famous profiles of the Guymoneau couple and mysterious medallions representing the cardinal virtues.
The Town Hall: Housed in the former Consuls' residence (16th century), the building boasts an Italianate inner courtyard adorned with a splendid statue of the Virgin and Child attributed to the local school of sculpture.
The network of lava fountains: Riom is punctuated by its fountains sculpted from black Volvic stone. Don't miss the Adam and Eve Fountain (rue Sirmont), the Lions Fountain, or the monumental Ballainvilliers Fountain, which have been refreshing the squares for centuries.
The jewels of power and royalty
During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, Riom established itself as the administrative capital of the province. Its architecture reflects the prestige of the princes who shaped it.
The Sainte-Chapelle: Built at the end of the 14th century by the wealthy Duke Jean de Berry, it is one of only seven Sainte-Chapelles remaining in France. Its flamboyant Gothic architecture houses sumptuous stained-glass windows and magnificent armorial keystones.
The Clock Tower: The town's former belfry, erected at the end of the 14th century on the foundations of a watchtower, offers a breathtaking 360° panoramic view from its platform, encompassing the Limagne plain and the line of volcanic peaks.
The Court of Appeal and the Palace of the Dukes: Built on the ruins of the fortified castle of Alphonse de Poitiers, these 19th century buildings bear witness to the judicial vocation of Riom (which also hosted the famous trial of the leaders of the Third Republic in 1942).
Sacred art and masterpieces of the shadows
Riom's religious heritage conceals artistic marvels unique in France, imbued with a still palpable fervor.
The Church of Notre-Dame-du-Marthuret: This southern Gothic-style building is famous for housing an absolute masterpiece of 14th-century sculpture: the Virgin with a Bird. This exquisitely delicate sculpture depicts the Infant Jesus playfully teasing a small bird. It stands alongside another local icon, the Black Madonna.
The Basilica of Saint-Amable: Dedicated to the city's patron saint, this church (the largest in the diocese after Clermont Cathedral) harmoniously blends Romanesque art with Gothic additions. Its sculpted capitals and large reliquary are remarkable.
Mozac Abbey (in the immediate vicinity): Located at the gates of the city, this former Benedictine abbey possesses some of the most beautiful Romanesque capitals in Europe, sculpted with exceptional graphic virtuosity.
Museums, mirrors of Auvergne identity
To understand the artistic life and daily lives of the inhabitants of the Limagne region throughout the centuries, Riom offers some outstanding cultural experiences.
The Mandet Museum: Housed in two magnificent 18th-century mansions connected by a contemporary glass roof, it boasts a rich collection of paintings and sculptures from Antiquity to the 19th century, as well as a unique section of contemporary silverware.
The Auvergne Regional Museum: This ethnography museum is a veritable time machine. Through more than 4,000 everyday objects, it vividly recreates rural life, crafts, costumes, and tools of the Auvergne people in the 19th century.
The Gardens of Culture: Located in the former Redemptoristine convent, this grand contemporary cultural center combines historic stonework with modern design to house a vast media library, art schools, and a cinema.
The gateways to volcanic nature
Riom is not just a city of art; it's the ideal base for exploring the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Volvic Springs: Less than 10 minutes away by car, discover the forest setting where the famous mineral water is filtered. It's a paradise for hiking, orienteering, and exploring volcanic stone.
The Sentinel Castles (Tournoël and Chazeron): Perched on the foothills of the Limagne Fault, these medieval castles offer breathtaking views of the agricultural plain and once guarded the mountain passes.
The Vulcania theme park and the Lemptégy Volcano: Located a 15-minute drive from the city, these complementary sites offer families the chance to delve into the Earth's core and understand the fascinating geological history that gave rise to the black stone of Riom.
Conclusion
Riom is a precious stop that rewards curious travelers. Far from being a monochrome city, its unique blend of dark volcanic stone and Renaissance elegance gives it a mysterious and profoundly authentic charm. From the hidden treasures of its private mansion courtyards to the volcanic peaks that watch over it, Riom perfectly embodies the historical grandeur and natural power of Lower Auvergne.
Terra Volcana Tourist Office - Riom Office
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