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Rocamadour, Medieval pilgrimage village in Lot, France

Rocamadour is a medieval pilgrimage site in the Lot department of Occitanie that spreads along a steep limestone cliff above the Alzou valley. The buildings appear stacked on top of each other, with houses, chapels, and towers built directly into the rock.

In the 12th century, this place grew into one of Europe's most important pilgrimage destinations after reports of miraculous healings drew believers from across Christendom. Kings, including Henry II of England and Louis IX of France, stopped here and contributed to the fame of the shrine.

The name Rocamadour likely comes from a hermit whose body was found here in the 12th century. Visitors today see depictions of the Black Madonna in many shops and restaurants, marking the religious heart of this place.

The climb to the sanctuaries is made either on foot via the grand staircase or by elevator, which is available for visitors with mobility issues. Sturdy footwear is recommended, as the paved paths and steps can be uneven.

The sword Durandal, said to have belonged to the knight Roland, reportedly remained embedded in the cliff face above the site for centuries. A replica now hangs at the same spot and recalls the medieval tale.

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Location
Lot
Elevation above the sea
261 m
Part of
Dordogne
Shares border with
Alvignac, Calès, Couzou, Gramat, Lacave, Meyronne, Montvalent, Rignac
Address
46500 Rocamadour, France
Phone
GPS coordinates
44.79944,1.61778
Latest update
December 14, 2025 22:31
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« Rocamadour - Medieval pilgrimage village in Lot, France » is provided by Around Us (aroundus.com). Images and texts are derived from Wikimedia project under a Creative Commons license. You are allowed to copy, distribute, and modify copies of this page, under the conditions set by the license, as long as this note is clearly visible.

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