How to Enjoy Rocamadour, France
Rocamadour looks as though it was carved from the rocky cliffs above the Alzou Valley, rather than built on them. But even such a precarious location has not deterred the faithful, and it has been one of the world’s most famous pilgrimage destinations since the 12th century. It prominence is owed to the discovery, in 1166, of the preserved body of the early Christian hermit St. Amadour. Legend says that Amadour was really Zaccheus of Jericho, the innkeeper who climbed a tree to see Jesus. His wife, St. Veronica, wiped the face of Jesus as he carried the cross to Calvary.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Visit the chapel of Notre-Dame. Directly adjacent to the Basilica of St-Sauveur, the chapel of Notre-Dame is home to the Black Virgin, also known as the Black Madonna and Child. This statue represents the supreme object of veneration and dominates this 12th-century chapel. Above the entrance is an iron sword that is said to have belonged to Roland, nephew of Charlemagne, whose death became one of the most celebrated in French history.
-
2
Visit the Chapelle Miraculeuse. This chapel contains the Tomb of St. Amadour, who is said to have carved an oratory in the rock. This chapel contains one of the oldest known clocks in the world, which dates to the eighth century.
-
-
3
Climb the Grand Stairway. The Grand Stairway is made up of 216 weather-worn stairs, which lead to a small square where the chapels are located. Since the 12th century, pilgrims asked for penance by climbing the stairs on their knees while they prayed the rosary. Although this act is still practiced by pilgrims today, the crowds and heat in the summer can make it a difficult task.
-
4
Pray the stations of the cross. A winding walkway leads from the lower level up the hillside to the chateau. Situated along this walkway, visitors will find the 12 stations of the cross and the Cross of Jerusalem. These stations are the same as in the Mary Magdalene Church at Rennes-le-Chateau. Visitors can stop to pray the stations of the cross or simply use this path in place of the elevators between the levels.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
For the best view of Rocamadour, view it from the village of L’Hospitalet in the early morning sun.
There are several elevators to take visitors between the sanctuaries, the medieval city and the castle.
A shuttle train runs from the valley parking area to the medieval city every 15 minutes.
The site is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Parking is limited in the village. For easier access, follow the signs up to the chateau, where a larger parking area is available.
Although the chateau is not open to the public, visitors can pay admission to explore the ramparts for some stunning views.
Rocamadour is situated on the side of a cliff, which could be uncomfortable for people who are afraid of heights.
Rocamadour hosts more than 1.5 million visitors every year, which can make it quite crowded at times.
Avoid the crowded souvenir shops in Rocamadour Town.
