Sentier Détours N°1 – Arvert

The route first takes you to the edge of the countryside, passing by one of the last private Protestant family cemeteries.
A look back at the temple-town hall complex built using stones from the old houses on the site, completed in 1868. The temple, built in the inner courtyard, has a side door reminiscent of the old houses of prayer.

Originally located around the church, the cemetery became too small in the 18th century (due to rising population and severe epidemics), and in 1852 gave way to the current cemetery which separates Catholic and Protestant graves with a hedge.

The 12th-century Church of Saint Peter (4) was almost entirely destroyed in 1568 during the Wars of Religion. It was only roughly rebuilt in 1683 under the impetus of Abbot Jean de Lafargue. From 1845 onwards, the bell tower and two small chapels, attached to the nave, were added. The well in front of the church dates from 1727.

Walk down to the tithe-gathering area, which was once located between the manor house and a barn where the tithe (the portion of the harvest collected by the church) was stored. Enjoy the countryside atmosphere and discover a local anecdote. In 1924, a farmer built his house with his own hands. The villagers mocked him, saying that a house built by a farmer wouldn't last long. Once finished, the farmer named his house "The Joke of the World" because it made everyone laugh. Further on, the Cabouci mill has a crenellated top because it served as a German observation post equipped with an artillery piece during the Second World War. Only three mills remain in the commune, which once boasted 26.

In the heart of the village, the Catholic presbytery, built in 1727 by Archpriest Alexandre de Lafargue, became the Town Hall in 1789, when Father Rançon pledged allegiance to the Revolution. It was returned to the parish about ten years later and abandoned in 1963 due to its dilapidated state. Now sold, it is being restored by private individuals.