Statue d'Urbain II

The 25-meter tall stone statue depicts Pope Urban II in pontifical robes with his hand raised in blessing, overlooking the Champagne vineyards and surrounding valleys from its hilltop position.

Erected in 1887 by sculptor Prosper d'Épinay, the monument honors Pope Urban II who launched the First Crusade at the Council of Clermont in 1095 and was born in this Champagne region around 1042.

The statue serves as a major landmark on the Champagne Tourist Route, attracting visitors interested in medieval religious history and offering panoramic views of 22 surrounding villages and vineyards.

Visitors can reach the monument via a 15-minute marked trail from the village center, with free year-round access and an orientation table identifying landscape features within a 360-degree vista.

Local legend tells that during construction, a mysterious figure in religious garments appeared at night to help workers lift the heavy statue, believed to be the spirit of Pope Urban II himself.

Location: Châtillon-sur-Marne

Address: 4 Rue de l'Église, 51700 Châtillon-sur-Marne, France 51700 Châtillon-sur-Marne

Website: http://ancien-geodesie.ign.fr/fiche_point.asp?num_site=5113602&no_ptg=01&numero_f50=2713

GPS coordinates: 49.09892,3.75887

Latest update: July 25, 2025 23:03