The medieval tower of Empurany was fully renovated in 2025 and houses several exhibition areas devoted to the history of the municipality and sacred art. The tower thus brings together two cultural themes in one place: local history and religious art.
Tower and Sacred Art
Free guided tours of the tower are planned for the summer; visits are possible by prior reservation only. Check the dates and make a reservation in advance so you can plan your visit around the seasonal tour schedule.
The church in Empurany has 14 stained-glass windows; most are signed by Charles Borie, a stained-glass artist from Le Puy-en-Velay. The windows add a specific connection to stained-glass art to the theme of sacred art.
Historical Markings and Their Interpretation
The cross known as “L’ancienne croix du cimetière” is located in the southern cemetery of the church. It probably dates from between 1880 and 1890 and is decorated with grapes, wheat and a ciborium. Its ornaments refer to the sacrifice of Christ and the Eucharist. This object brings together plant motifs and religious symbolism.
La Pierre des morts is open daily year-round, free of charge. The stone may be a tombstone that once lay over a burial chamber; it bears the initials “AM” and the year “1656.” A dedication to a prominent figure in the Diocese of Vienne is also only one possibility. The initials and year are concrete features, while the stone’s function as a tombstone and the dedication remain possible interpretations.
The dates have different roles: 2025 marks the tower’s renovation; 1880 to 1890 is the probable date of the cross; and the year 1656 is inscribed on La Pierre des morts. This comparison helps distinguish a renovation date, a probable date of origin and an inscription.
Landscape and Leisure
The Petite cascade d’Empurany is located on the Route d’Arlebosc. The “Saint-Just” hike offers remarkable views of the Doux valley. The two natural attractions offer different highlights: the waterfall is identified by its named road, while the valley view is the “Saint-Just” hike’s special appeal. When choosing a nature outing, you can decide whether a named place or a hike with a view matters more to you.
Boats and watercraft of any kind are prohibited at Lac l’Oasis. If you are considering a visit to the lake, take this restriction into account and check the current rules in advance.
Empurany has an outdoor boules area where you can play with family and friends. Local facilities also include a multipurpose hall, a playground and a motorhome parking area. The boules area is therefore a communal leisure option alongside the cultural and landscape attractions.
For planning your visit, the difference between the two cultural sites is clear: the tower requires advance reservation, and guided tours are planned for the summer; La Pierre des morts is open daily, year-round and free of charge. If you plan to visit both, book the tower first, then visit La Pierre independently at any time within its year-round daily opening schedule.
Discover more destinations: Ucel, Antraigues-Sur-Volane, La Rochette, Champis, Saint-Fortunat-Sur-Eyrieux, Veyras, Saint-Jean-De-Muzols, Juvinas
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