The abbey, belfry and Traverse du Ponthieu offer different ways to explore local history and activities in Saint-Riquier. The commune has been part of the Baie de Somme – Picardie maritime Regional Nature Park since 13 February 2020. This gives you several points of interest to consider when planning your visit: historic buildings, guided walks, a cultural programme and a former railway line that now runs through Saint-Riquier as a footpath.
Abbey, Belfry and HĂ´tel Dieu
The abbey was founded in 625. In the 9th century, under Abbot Angilbert, it was an important cultural, intellectual and religious centre. The two dates mark distinct chapters in its history: its foundation came long before its later prominence under Angilbert. If you are interested in the abbey’s development, this timeline is a clear starting point.
The belfry also reflects several phases of construction. Its base is medieval, the upper structure dates from the 16th century and the bell tower from the 18th century. Inside are a prison and four rooms, one above the other. The belfry is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also houses the tourist information office. The building therefore brings together its architectural history and its present-day visitor information without confusing its different functions.
Another historic site is the Hôtel Dieu complex. Built between 1688 and 1704 on the foundations of an older 12th-century building, it preserves that building’s chapel. Its museum displays reconstructions of an 18th-century hospital room and pharmacy. A surviving part of the older building and recreated interiors from a later period can thus be seen side by side.
Tours and Cultural Programme
You can visit the abbey church without a guide; admission is free of charge. The treasury can be visited differently: it is accessible only as part of a guided tour through the Centre Culturel DĂ©partemental. If you would like to visit both, bear this distinction in mind and check the latest tour dates for the treasury in advance.
The Balades Centuloises guided walks start at the belfry. They combine historical information with insights into the local heritage and anecdotes. This offers a different focus from a self-guided tour, where you can examine the construction phases of individual buildings at your own pace. The Centre Culturel de Saint-Riquier adds exhibitions, theatre, dance and concerts to the programme. Which option suits your visit depends on whether you are more interested in guided local history, exhibitions or the performing arts.
On Foot, by Bike or on Horseback
The Traverse du Ponthieu follows the route of a former railway line and passes through Saint-Riquier. It can be used on foot, by bike or on horseback. This offers a different way to shape your visit from the Balades Centuloises: the focus here is on travelling along the former railway line, while the guided walks combine historical information, local heritage and anecdotes. You do not need to plan for a particular duration or route length; the first thing to consider is what kind of exploration you are looking for.
For a cultural and historical visit, the abbey, belfry and HĂ´tel Dieu each offer distinct stories of construction and use. The Balades Centuloises add a guided perspective, while the cultural programme includes other types of events. If you would like to include some activity, you can choose the Traverse according to how you plan to use it.
Discover more destinations: Woincourt, Noyelles-Sur-Mer, Grand-Laviers, Beaucamps-Le-Vieux, Lanchéres, Suzanne, Méaulte, Bernay-en-Ponthieu.
Go to the main travel overview: Somme.
