Église monolithe Saint-Jean, Underground Romanesque church in Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, France
Église monolithe Saint-Jean is an underground church carved into a limestone cliff, extending roughly 27 meters long, 16 meters wide, and reaching about 20 meters high. The interior consists of a single nave with a rounded apse at the east end, where a large stone altar shows the marks of centuries of use.
Originally established as a cave in the 7th century, the church was significantly expanded by Benedictine monks in the 12th century. This expansion followed the enthusiasm generated by reports of the Holy Sepulcher brought back from the Crusades.
The name references Saint John the Baptist, a figure of importance for pilgrims traveling to Santiago de Compostela. The numerous tombs carved into the floor show how this place held meaning for believers across generations.
The site remains accessible year-round except for Christmas and New Year's Day, making it a stable destination for regular visits. The surroundings offer straightforward paths and signage to help visitors explore the underground church and nearby workshops in this small village.
A large reliquary carved from a single limestone block, roughly 6 meters tall, stands in the apse and drew the attention of pilgrims heading to Santiago de Compostela. This shrine served as an important stop for those passing along this celebrated pilgrimage route.
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