Basilica of St. Michael, Bordeaux

The Basilica of St. Michael in Bordeaux is a Gothic church featuring a 114-meter bell tower that makes it the tallest religious structure in southern France. The building displays characteristic Gothic elements including pointed arches and soaring stonework.

Construction of this religious monument began in the late 14th century and extended into the 16th century, replacing an earlier Romanesque church that stood on the same site. This lengthy building period reflects the gradual architectural evolution across medieval times.

The basilica serves as a major stop along the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela and forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing. Visitors notice it as a central landmark that has guided pilgrims through the city for centuries.

The bell tower is open Tuesday to Friday from 14:00 to 17:30, with additional morning hours on weekends and Mondays. Visitors should know that the stairs are steep and the views over the city are accessible from the top.

The crypt beneath the bell tower once held a collection of naturally mummified bodies that were discovered in 1791 and not moved until 1979. This unexpected find made the underground chamber a place of archaeological interest.

Location: Bordeaux

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

Height: 114 m

Part of: Way of Saint James UNESCO World Heritage Sites in France

GPS coordinates: 44.83440,-0.56490

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:19