Vézelay, Medieval commune in Burgundy, France
Vézelay is a commune in Burgundy rising on a hill roughly 302 meters above sea level, surrounded by forests and vineyards. The settlement consists of an old upper town with cobbled paths and a newer lower town where shops and houses spread at the foot of the slope.
An abbey arose here in the 9th century and attracted pilgrims in the following centuries who set out on the route to Santiago de Compostela. The church expanded during the 11th and 12th centuries and remained a religious center until the French Revolution.
The name comes from Latin roots pointing to an ancient settlement, while narrow lanes still show medieval living patterns today. Artisans and winemakers maintain their traditions in stone houses along the main street, and small workshops open their doors to visitors.
A walk through the upper town follows steep streets and steps that can become slippery when wet, so comfortable footwear is advisable. Parking areas are mostly below the old town, and a short uphill walk brings visitors to the center.
The basilica facade displays over 200 carved figures and scenes from the Old and New Testament distributed across arches and columns. Many visitors overlook the capitals inside, even though they tell stories of saints, animals and biblical episodes.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
