Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
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Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion - by Periago on Google
Description
The Monolithic Church of Saint-Émilion is the largest underground church in Europe. It was dug into a hillside in the 11th century, which required the extraction of 15,000 m3 of rock - it is 38m long and 12m high. A tower was erected on top of it the next century and the current structure cumulative height is 68m. The town itself is named after the hermit monk Émilion who set up an oratory there in the 8th century. The underground church can only be visited with a guide, the tours are organized by the Tourist Office and last 45mins taking in the hermitage of Émilion, the Trinity Chapel and its medieval paintings, the catacombs as well as the underground church.
Access & Transport
By car from Bordeaux, take the N89 to Libourne but avoid the town by taking the D1089 "ring road" and then the D670 before turning left 3km later. There is also a train station about 1.5km south of the old town and the monolithic church - it is a ~30mins ride from Gare Saint Jean in Bordeaux on TERs headed towards Périgueux or Bergerac.
Instructions & Recommendations
Tours in French start from 10h30 and last departure is 16h30. In English it starts at 11h00 or 14h00 and in Spanish at 15h00 on weekends only. It is best to book in advance as slots are limited. We suggest combining this activity with a visit of the town of Saint-Émilion.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally neutral (no carbon footprint). Helps preserve the town's and region's cultural heritage and provides economic activity to the community.
Conclusion
The Monolithic Chruch of Saint-Émilion really is an interesting monument and, combined with a visit of the rest of the town, definitely the best cultural activity within a 40mins drive from Bordeaux. It is original, the town has a lot of character and great restaurants, and the countryside is scenic - the perfect recipe!
Key positive
Unusual and interesting monument
Located in a beautiful town surrounded by vineyards
Guided tours are of good quality
Key negative
A little expensive
Suitability
Suitable for all ages. Although it is not clearly specified, we do not think the visit is accessible to visitors with reduced mobility because of stairs. We would recommend contacting the tourist office to check.
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 45m
est. visit time:1h 15m
Monday10:30 - 17:30
Tuesday10:30 - 17:30
Wednesday10:30 - 17:30
Thursday10:30 - 17:30
Friday10:30 - 17:30
Saturday10:30 - 17:30
Sunday10:30 - 17:30