Festival de Caunes-Minervois

An exceptional musical setting in the Benedictine abbey

The Festival de Caunes-Minervois takes place in one of the most beautiful religious buildings in Languedoc: the Benedictine abbey of Caunes-Minervois, founded in the 8th century. The concerts are held in the Romanesque apse of the abbey, whose natural acoustics enhance the musical performances. This exceptional architectural setting, enriched with pillars of incarnate red marble—the local specialty—gives the musical evenings an intimate and solemn atmosphere.

Jazz and classical: bold musical encounters

The festival's programming is distinguished by its desire to create a dialogue between jazz and classical music within the same event. Each edition offers six evenings of concerts spread over a week, alternating between contemporary jazz, chamber music, recitals, and original creations. The festival favors artists who push the boundaries between genres, encouraging musical crossovers and new collaborations.

In 2025, the 7th edition featured Léon Phal / Stress Killer, Célia Kaméni performing "Méduse", the Hermès Quartet, the show Virtuosi!, the Trio Moreau in a Schubertiade, and Julien Martineau with the Toulouse Chamber Orchestra for the closing evening "Vivaldi and the Mandolin".

A discovery day at the heart of the festival

Mid-week, the festival offers a free discovery day open to all, allowing the public to meet the artists, attend open rehearsals, and discover the behind-the-scenes of the festival. This day reflects the organizers' commitment to making music accessible to as many people as possible and fostering connections between artists and the public.

A village of character in the heart of Minervois

Caunes-Minervois, labeled Petite Cité de Caractère (Small Town of Character), offers festival-goers an exceptional place to stay. A wine-growing village renowned for its incarnate red marble that adorns the Palace of Versailles, Caunes invites visitors to explore its medieval streets, tasting cellars, and historic marble quarries. The festival thus contributes to the tourist and cultural appeal of this exceptional village.