Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine

The Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Vézelay is a 12th-century masterpiece of Romanesque art and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located at Place de la Basilique, 89450 Vézelay, it is renowned for its exceptional interplay of light and stone. Originally founded as a nunnery in 867, the site gained prominence as a major pilgrimage destination on the via lemovicensis route to Santiago de Compostela, largely due to the alleged presence of Mary Magdalene’s relics. It is also historically significant as the starting point for one of the Crusades.

The basilica is open daily from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm year-round. Entry is free, though guided tours are available for a fee. Visitors should allocate 1–2 hours for their visit. Access is via the south door, with exit through the cloister gallery. Hand sanitization is required upon entry and exit. Masks are optional for general visits but mandatory during religious services. Group sizes are limited to 9 people, with a maximum of 5 allowed in the crypt at one time. Visitors must follow the signposted route.

Pets are not allowed, but parking and toilets are available. Contact for inquiries is +33-3-86333950, and more information is available at basiliquedevezelay.org. The site receives high ratings and is considered a must-see attraction. It is associated with the Way of St. James (GR®213A hiking route) and equestrian tourism in the Morvan region. This landmark offers a profound insight into medieval religious history and architectural mastery.