This new commune was created in 2016 following the merger of the historic communes of Sainte-Anastasie, Celles, Chavagnac, Chalinargues and Neussargues-Moissac. What these areas have in common is a vast religious heritage and access to La Pinatelle forest, a well-known site for outdoor sports enthusiasts.
The Neussargues basin, a transit point for Neolithic pastors, has been inhabited by humans from Protohistory to the present day. This presence is confirmed, among other things, by remains found in the rock shelters of Cuzers. The commune was known as Moissac until 1872, when the administrative centre of the commune was moved to Neussargues, which expanded in the 19th century with the opening of Route Nationale 122 road and the arrival of the railway. The station was soon to become Cantal’s most prominent railway hub.
Neussargues station area and its pedestrian bridge
Built in the 12th century to replace a Carolingian building, this small church has been altered over the years, giving it a highly unusual appearance. The open bell tower and staircase on the southern façade add to the strangeness of this building. The interior is just as surprising, with a carved pulpit from the 16th century and a polychrome baptistery from the 17th century. The lavish frescoes and decorations are just one of the assets of this small church on the Via Arverna. Next to the doorway, a Jacobean tomb is a reminder of the importance of the devotion to Santiago de Compostela in the region.
Church of Saint-Hilaire de Moissac
The church of Chalinargues is located in the centre of the village and is slightly elevated. It was probably part of a château-chapel structure that no longer exists. Its architectural identity is a combination of Romanesque and Gothic styles. This building now houses a fragment of the Holy Cross in a display case. An elaborate baptismal font is also on display and deserves a closer look. Before you leave, take a good look at the bell tower - there are sure to be two figures watching you! The most observant of you may recognise Saint Martin…
Altarpiece in the church of Chalinargues
La Pinatelle massif stretches from the hamlets of Chavagnac and Chalinargues out towards Le Cézallier. This forest of pine trees is a genuine haven of nature where you can recharge your batteries! The trees, shaped by the wind, sometimes take on strange forms and are home to a huge array of wildlife. So, if you’re discreet enough, you might just catch a glimpse of deer and does in their natural habitat!
Lac du Pêcher
La Pinatelle is also a great place for outdoor activities: Hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, fishing, cani-rando (hiking pulled by a dog) and dog-sleigh rides are all available throughout most of the year! On the spot, our craftspeople are also at your service: our potters welcome you to their barn at La Boissonnière, as do our jam-makers at La Roche aux Fruits, and our local producers (making PDO cheeses and cured meats/meat products on the farm)
Main Grande Traversée du Massif Central (GTMC) mountain bike route - La Pinatelle Massif
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