Chapelle Notre-Dame de Vassivière

Chapelle Notre-Dame de Vassivière is a mountain chapel with Gothic architecture located at an elevation of about 1297 meters (4260 feet). Its stone walls and traditional religious ornaments reflect its enduring spiritual purpose.

Construction began in 1549 and was completed in 1555, using stones salvaged from an earlier ruined church at the same location. This rebuilding transformed ruins into a functioning place of worship that served the mountain community.

A Black Madonna statue is carried annually between this chapel and Saint-André Church in Besse through two processions called Montée and Dévalade. These traditional ceremonies connect the two locations and continue to draw visitors who witness the event.

The chapel can be reached by hiking from Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise, a climb that takes several hours and requires sturdy footwear. Weather in the mountains changes quickly, so visitors should dress in layers and bring rain protection.

Local tradition holds that around 475 years ago a man recovered his sight at this location, establishing it as a pilgrimage destination. This claimed miracle shaped the chapel's reputation and still draws believers today.