Vézelay Abbey

Vézelay Abbey is a Romanesque basilica that rises above the Burgundian countryside, featuring three naves with decorated capitals and carved stone details throughout. The structure measures 62.5 meters long, 23.25 meters wide, and 38 meters high, demonstrating the craftsmanship of the period.

In the 10th century, the abbey acquired relics that transformed it into one of Europe's largest pilgrimage destinations during medieval times. This event shaped its importance for centuries and established it as a pilgrimage hub that drew travelers from across the continent.

The building carries a name tied to a religious figure whose veneration drew thousands of pilgrims in medieval times. Today visitors can see the carved capitals and doorways that reflect both this devotion and how medieval people understood their world.

The building is open to visitors and provides space for quiet exploration of its interior rooms and structures. Guided tours are available to help explain the carved details and how the space is arranged.

The main entrance displays carved figures of people from different cultures, including African, Arab, and Asian representations, showing how medieval people understood distant lands. These depictions offer visitors a glimpse into how the world was imagined back then.

Location: Vézelay

Inception: 9 century

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

Height: 38 m

Length: 62.5 m

Width: 23.25 m

Accessibility: Wheelchair limited access

Operator: Fraternité Monastique de Jérusalem

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

Address: La Basilique de Vézelay, 24 Rue Saint-Pierre, 89450 Vézelay, France

Opening Hours: Monday 08:00-20:00; Tuesday-Sunday 07:00-20:00

Phone: +33386333950

Website: http://basiliquedevezelay.org

GPS coordinates: 47.46639,3.74833

Latest update: December 6, 2025 15:00