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Church · Le Puy-en-Velay, Auvérnia-Ródano-Alpes
Rocher Saint-Michel d'Aiguilhe
The chapel of Saint-Michel, from the 10th century, atop an 82-meter volcanic rock needle, reached by a stairway of 268 steps.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Rocher Saint-Michel d'Aiguilhe
The chapel of Saint-Michel d'Aiguilhe sits atop an 82-metre volcanic rock in Aiguilhe, a neighboring town of Le Puy. The rock needle is the city's most famous image: the small church looks fitted onto the summit, its bell tower pointing to the sky.
The chapel was built in the 10th century and consecrated by Bishop Godescalc, the same man who made one of France's earliest known pilgrimages to Santiago. It was later enlarged but kept its Romanesque form. The entrance door has arches decorated with stones of different colours, figures and motifs with eastern influence.
Inside, the chapel is small and irregular, following the shape of the rock, with old mural paintings on the vaults.
The climb is via a staircase of 268 steps carved and built into the rock. From the top you can see all of Le Puy, with the cathedral, the rochedo Corneille and the surrounding mountains.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour, including the ascent and descent.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, to avoid strong sun on the stairs in summer. The chapel is closed for part of winter and opening times vary by season: check ahead.
How to get there
Located in Aiguilhe, about a 15-minute walk from the cathedral, descending through the neighbourhood north of the old town.
Tip
Climb slowly and wear comfortable shoes: the steps are uneven. From the top, photograph the town with the rochedo Corneille and the statue of Notre-Dame de France.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Rocher Saint-Michel d'Aiguilhe
How many steps are there on the climb to Saint-Michel d'Aiguilhe?
There are 268 steps to the chapel, on top of an 82-metre rock.
Is the chapel very old?
Yes, it was built in the 10th century and later enlarged, retaining its Romanesque form.
Is the chapel open year-round?
Not always: it closes for part of the winter and has hours that vary by season. Check ahead.