If it hadn't been for a masterful restoration, the turbulent history of the Collège des Bernardins (1246) was such that it could well have signed its death warrant. This Cistercian masterpiece, depicted by a storeroom and a splendid 70m-long Gothic hall sporting three majestic naves, is today a venue for the creations of contemporary artists, shows and conferences. The former sacristy extension features lovely high Gothic vaults.