Rocamadour

If you are a religious person and you are planning an out-of-town trip, Rocamadour might be the best destination for you. Situated in the former province of Quercy, this commune, having a population of 600, receives millions of tourists annually. Visitors and pilgrims ranges from nobles, bishops and kings to devotees from all over the world.
Rocamadour had been known as a medieval pilgrimage destination. It was believed that this place had been the burial place of the hermit, claimed to be Zaccheus of Jericho. Some believed that the hermit brought the statue of the Black Virgin with him to this place. This attracted more and more visitors, some of which claims the miraculous healing they experienced in their visit in this place. In 1166, an ancient grave was excavated near the chapel of Our Lady which contains an undecayed body. Many believed that it belongs to St. Amadour who is usually paralleled to Zaccheus. A 216-step leading to location of the chapel of Our Lady is visited by millions of people offering their penitence – some would climb the steps kneeling.
Cite Religieuse, a group of chapels and churches on top of the rocky plateau, welcomes you in this place offering souvenir shops, and seven chapels nestled in a chateau. You can access the 216 steps known as Grand Escalier as you feast on the sight of 14 Stations of the Cross which ends in the Cross of Jerusalem on its top.
You will be filled with awe of the Romanesque-Gothic style of architecture as you visit the Basilique St-Sauveur. You can witness the paintings displayed here as well as inscriptions stating the visits of nobles, Philippe the Handsome is among them.
Chapelle de Notre-Damme shows you its exclusive veneration to the Black Madonna statue. You can also see the sword on top of the door leading to the chapel which is believed to belong to Roland.
Safeguarded by a suspended rock, the 12th century Chapelle St-Michel gives you the well-kept frescoes dated back in the 12th century. You can also witness the 19th century additions and changes made to this chapel.
You can also visit the well-known Tomb of St. Amadour which is located at the Chapelle Miraculeuse. You will have the opportunity to see the one of the oldest known clocks in the world which dates back in the 8th century, hanging on its ceiling.
If you are visiting with your family, the Petit Train de Nuit will be enjoyed by kids and adults as well, as a trip through the train winds through the village. You can witness the spectacular view of lighted castles and shrines.
You can also enjoy the Euro Mini Land (Feerie du Rail), L'Hospitalet. It is a 45-minute show which depicts a miniature world fantasy with trains whirling through a small village resided with people and shows the castles, mountains and valleys which are all given life through amazing light show and robotics.
Hiking and biking can be your option too, as you take a guided tour through Rocamadour’s four nature hikes. Horseback riding can be offered to you and your family at the Ferme Equestre de Lagardelle and Bournerie’s Pony Club.
A trip enjoyed by young and old alike which lets you feel closer to the Divine One is what Rocamadour is all about.