Le Puy-en-Velay

If you are a Catholic devotee who loves travelling, you shouldn’t miss on the places that can strengthen your faith. Aside from the Holy Land of Jerusalem in Asia, Europe also boasts its religious places. In France alone, Le Puy-en-Velay can be found.

Le Puy-en-Velay served as one of the main archdioceses of France during the Middle Ages. It is a community in the Auvergne region situated in the south-central part of the country.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame du Puy, one of the best sights in this religious community, was built in the early 12th century. Pilgrims gather in this cathedral each morning to be blessed prior to the beginning of their journey to Santiago de Compostela. The Gothic designs that are prominent in old Catholic churches can also be seen in the interiors and exteriors of this famous cathedral. And yes, this same Cathedral is the lair the Hunchback of Notre Dame (a fictional character that was transformed into a full length animated movie). Le Puy-en-Velay also has a lot of other religious sanctuaries, including Saint Michel d’Aiguilhe’s Chapel.

The Ruins of Château de Polignac can be found three miles from Le Puy. These ruins were once a castle that served as the residence of Le Puy-en-Velay’s monarchs.

Ponots, the inhabitants of Le Puy-en-Velay are famous for commemorating the Jubilee of Le Puy, a celebration when the feast of annunciation falls on the same date as Good Friday. This celebration attracted many pilgrims in the past, the record breaking one was during the 1932 Jubilee, which had drawn more than 300,000 pilgrims.

You also must visit Le Puy-en-Velay for its laces since this small commune specializes in lace making. These beautiful laces, generally used as veils and handkerchiefs, are mainly the souvenirs sold in shops around the area. Le Puy-en-Velay is also popular for its Verveine, a green-colored liqueur mixed with the essence of Verbena.

By visiting Le Puy-en-Velay, you can either celebrate your Catholic faith or just enjoy the solemn ambiance of the place.