Transhumance, 16-20 April.

The transhumance is an annual movement of livestock between winter and summer pastures. In the Lot department this tradition was revived a few years ago and takes place over a few days between Rocamadour and Luzech, involving hundreds of sheep. It has become a tradition for ramblers to follow the sheep on one or more days during the event. The ramblers include not only walkers, but also those on horseback, carts drawn by donkeys and walkers accompanied by their donkeys.

Choral event at renovated church of St Astier, Catus

On Sunday 14th May, 2013 the renovated interior of the church of St Astier resounded to an excellent performance by the choral group, Côté Chœur, from Cahors. The group entertained the audience to a varied selection of music - both traditional and modern choral works. This was the first public event since the inauguration of the renovated church (see earlier post).

Watch some video of the performance below......

Inauguration of Restored Church of St Astier

The church of St Astier, which dates back to the 12th century, underwent major renovation work over the past few years. Restoration work included the roof, damp-proofing, the painting of the crucifixion, the high altar and repair and painting of the internal structure and the stained-glass windows. The inauguration of the restored church  on 7th April, 2013 was celebrated at a mass by Mgr Norbert Turini, bishop of Cahors and officially presided over by a number of civil dignitaries. The event was attended by many of the inhabitants of Catus. A vin d'honneur in front of the church ended a magnificent day for the village.

The church of St Astier

The restored main altar

A choir singing in the restored chancel - 2011

The restored painting of the crucifixion

Curé Cambon and Mgr Turini

Part of the congregation at the inauguration

Vin d'honneur outside the church