Three days of festivities and encounters are planned to commemorate this historic event, nearly twelve centuries after the relics' departure in 838 AD. The city of Issoire, in partnership with the municipality, is opening the doors of its architectural gem for a program rich in music, history, and heritage.
The evening of Friday, November 20, will begin at 8:00 PM with a concert by soprano Lauriane Nourry, accompanied by the abbey's grand organ, performing Ave Maria pieces throughout history and masterpieces from the repertoire.
Saturday, November 21, will be dedicated to history and heritage. Starting at 3:00 PM, Professor Jean-Luc FRAY from the Université Clermont Auvergne will give a conference on Saint Austremoine and the abbey's history, followed by a round table with Mr. Bertrand BARRAUD, Mayor of Issoire, discussing the restoration and transmission of this exceptional heritage.
“"La Mémoire des Pierres" (The Memory of the Stones), a musical tale specially created for the event, will revive its history through the centuries."
Saturday evening, at 8:00 PM, will feature the "Voix et Lumières" (Voices and Lights) show. Over 100 choristers will perform "La Mémoire des Pierres," a musical tale recounting the abbey's history, followed by "Quand l’Espérance se chante" (When Hope is Sung).
Sunday, November 22, will commence at 10:00 AM with a procession through Issoire, followed at 11:00 AM by a solemn celebration presided over by Archbishop François Kalist of Clermont, during which a portion of Saint Austremoine's relics will be officially reinstated. An aperitif will be offered by the parish.
In the afternoon, starting at 2:30 PM, the event will continue with "L’abbatiale en famille" (The Abbey with Family), offering stained glass workshops for children, demonstrations of the Grand Organ, and insights into the skills of heritage artisans.
