Nasbinals, commune in Lozère, France
Nasbinals is a small village in the Lozère region of southern France, situated in a valley at about 1,180 meters (3,870 feet) elevation. Traditional stone houses with flat stone roofs line narrow streets, and the church of Sainte-Marie with its octagonal bell tower forms the heart of the settlement.
The village was established in the 11th century with the construction of the church of Sainte-Marie, built by monks from Marseille in 1074 to shelter pilgrims crossing the rough Aubrac terrain. During the Middle Ages it became a key stop along the Way of Saint James pilgrimage route and grew further, especially in the 14th century with church expansions.
The village takes its name from the pilgrims who have passed through here for centuries. The houses cluster tightly around the church, showing how daily life has always centered on this religious landmark.
The village is easy to explore on foot and offers basic services such as small shops and cafes around the main square. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since the streets are narrow and sometimes uneven, and the surrounding area is best explored by foot or bicycle.
A fascinating historical figure from the village was Pierrounet, a healer who developed remarkable skills by first practicing on animals and later became known for his extraordinary ability to treat bone injuries and wounds. The village erected a statue in his honor in 1909, preserving his unusual legacy.
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