At the crossroads leading to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port or Sainte-Marie d'Oloron in the Pyrenees, theSorde Abbey on the Camino de Santiagolocated south of Landes on the banks of the Gave d'Oloron, closed its 2024 tourist season with very encouraging results.
2024 Tourist SeasonSorde Abbey
The year 2024 marked an attendance record for theAbbey of Saint-Jean de Sorde with more than 12,000 visitorsan increase of 8% compared to the previous year 2023 which represented the best season since its opening in 1999. This success is the result of an effective promotion strategy and an enriched cultural offer.
The month of September was particularly fruitful with an increase in 46% of visitors. Group bookings largely contributed to this dynamic, recording an increase of 37%. This influx demonstrates the growing attractiveness of the abbey, particularly among organized groups and schools.
A local audience
Visitors to New Aquitaine represent more than half of the visitors, with 55%, including 56% from Landais and 25% from Basques and Béarnais. This geographical proximity facilitates access to the site and reinforces its role in promoting local heritage.
The reasons for the success of Sorde Abbey
Sorde Abbey is renowned for the beauty of its buildings and its natural environment. Visitors can discover a remarkable architectural ensemble, witness to centuries of history and culture. The preservation and enhancement of places helps to offer an immersive and authentic experience.
The abbey also offers mediation activities varied, such as guided tours, educational workshops and temporary exhibitions. These initiatives allow visitors to better understand the history and heritage of the abbey while making the visit fun and interactive.
Video France 3 Nouvelle-Aquitaine – Cape South West Landes
A cultural season rich in programming
The cultural season at Sorde Abbey is marked by a rich and diverse program. Concerts, conferences, shows and thematic events punctuate the year, attracting an ever-increasing and varied audience. These cultural events help to make the abbey a place of meeting and sharing.
The SORDUS collective research project
Despite its growing success, Sorde Abbey has not yet revealed all its secrets. THE SORDUS Collective Research Project undertakes an in-depth study of this very complex monumental ensemble. This initiative aims to better understand the multiple phases of construction of the abbey and to lift the veil on the mysteries of its history.
Archaeological discoveries accompany and nourish this study work. Each excavation brings its share of revelations, adding a stone to the building of knowledge of the site. These discoveries allow us to better understand the evolution of the abbey over the centuries and to further enhance this exceptional heritage.
Heritage preservation remains a major challenge. Conservation and restoration efforts must be sustained to preserve the integrity and authenticity of the places. Furthermore, the promotion of archaeological discoveries and the results of the SORDUS project will make it possible to renew the interest of visitors and contribute to the reputation of the abbey.
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