Jeff Steiner's Americans in France.
Resource for people that would like to live or travel in France.

Attractions

Culture

Daily Life

Driving

Links

Moving Planner

Podcast/Hangouts

Q & A

Reading List

Travel Planner

Videos

Expat Store
Currency
Services

Driver's License

Events

Foods

Garbage
Disposal Units


Insurance

Learn French

Tax Services

Telephony



Northern BurgundyVézelay

Located in Northern Burgundy and two hours drive from Paris the Benedictine Abbey of Vézelay is a masterpiece of Romanesque art and architecture. The abbey is one of 23 UNESCO World Heritage sites in France. The church of the Abbey Ste. Madeleine, is unlike most churches, luminous. Thus allowing the visitor to easily appreciate not only the outside beauty but the inside as well. Highlights of the architecture not to be missed: The façade and in particular the Christ Crowned Statue. The church's two towers, if possible walk to the top. Back of the church as viewed from the outside; try if possible to have the sun behind you. Inside, look up and you'll see why Vézelay is a masterpiece of art and architecture.

The abbey was originally built in the 9th century, but underwent numerous remodeling projects up until the 19th century. The last remodeling project saved the church from collapsing.

The abbey is located on a hill and offers both a view from above and below. My suggestion: park at the bottom of the hill and walk up to the abbey. The walk takes about 10 minutes, allowing you to see the village.

Without difficulty Vézelay can be seen in just a few hours. Allow enough time to walk around the church and experience the view. Down through the centuries pilgrims came to the site, drawn to Mary Magdalene's bones. Located in the crypt, the relics are easy to view.

Be warned - parking is NOT free in Vézelay even on Sundays and holidays. Make sure you put money in the meter!

Related Links:
Vézelay, Church and Hill
Romanesque Architecture

Hotels in Auxerre (Hour drive)

Follow @jeffsteiner


Sign-up for the FREE Americans in France newsletter.
Just type in your e-mail address and click 'Subscribe'.



HomeBack

Contact

Newsletter

About

Search Site


Travel Store

Apps

Auto Rentals

B&B's

Cell Phones

Hotels

Phone Card

Sightseeing

SIM Card

WiFi

Workshops

Terms &
Conditions

This site
uses Cookies!

Terms of Service

Other

Follow me
on Twitter.

Facebook Page

RSS Feed