16th century lintel with four historic coats of arms in the Aurinque chapel in Aurillac

Chapelle Notre Dame D'Aurinques

Chapelle Notre-Dame d’Aurinques Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide | Aurillac, France

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Aurillac, France, the Chapelle Notre-Dame d’Aurinques stands as a living testament to centuries of faith, architectural creativity, and community spirit. With roots tracing back to the 12th century and an enduring association with miraculous local legends, this chapel is a cherished destination for pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and cultural travelers alike. This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know before visiting: from its historical and architectural highlights to practical information on visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, and nearby attractions.

Introduction
Historical Origins and Community Foundation
Architectural Evolution and Key Features
Religious and Cultural Significance
- Marian Devotion and Pilgrimage
- Community and Liturgical Life
Art, Music, and Local Traditions
Preservation and Community Engagement
Visitor Information
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Final Tips
References and Links

Historical Origins and Community Foundation

Chapelle Notre-Dame d’Aurinques owes its existence to pivotal events in Aurillac’s past, notably the 1581 siege by Huguenot forces during the French Wars of Religion. Local lore recounts a miraculous intervention by the Virgin Mary, believed to have appeared on the city ramparts, inspiring the townspeople and leading to their deliverance. In gratitude, the city’s leaders vowed to build a chapel in her honor, and construction began in 1616, ingeniously integrating remnants of the medieval Tour de Seyrac, part of Aurillac’s old fortifications (Monumentum; Wikipedia).

While the chapel’s most significant expansion dates to the 17th century, its spiritual roots reach deeper, with earlier Marian devotion in the region dating back to the 13th century (Ville d’Aurillac). Over centuries, the chapel has served as both a place of rural pilgrimage and a symbol of community resilience.

Architectural Evolution and Key Features

Romanesque Foundations and Restorations

The chapel’s architecture reflects a harmonious blend of Romanesque solidity, Renaissance artistry, and 19th-century restoration. Constructed from the region’s distinctive volcanic stone, the structure’s four bays—two irregular at the entrance, two regular at the sanctuary—are crowned with ribbed vaults supported by a massive central pillar. The sanctuary, elevated by six steps, draws visitors toward a rare pendant keystone and period frescoes (Base Mérimée).

The portal, dated 1745, marks a significant restoration by the city’s consuls, while 19th-century additions under architect Antoine Verdier introduced a transept, flat chevet, and sacristy (tuyo.fr). Inside, visitors can admire original frescoes, a 17th-century stained glass window, a polychrome Virgin and Child statue, and a 13th-century wooden crucifix.

For its historical and architectural value, the chapel is a protected Monument Historique (wikimonde.com).

Religious and Cultural Significance

Marian Devotion and Pilgrimage

As a shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the chapel has long attracted pilgrims seeking intercession and healing, especially during Marian feast days such as August 15 (Assumption) and September 8 (Nativity of Mary). The revered statue of the Virgin is central to annual processions and ceremonies (Diocèse de Saint-Flour).

Community and Liturgical Life

The chapel is not only a destination for pilgrims but also a hub for community liturgy, including Mass, weddings, and baptisms. It serves as a venue for concerts and cultural gatherings, reinforcing its dual role as a sacred space and center for local identity (Aurillac Tourisme).

Art, Music, and Local Traditions

The chapel’s acoustics make it an ideal site for sacred music concerts, especially during the renowned Festival d’Aurillac (Festival d’Aurillac). Artistic treasures within include vibrant frescoes depicting Marian scenes and intricately carved woodwork.

Local traditions feature the lighting of candles, offering of ex-votos, and recitation of prayers for protection. Miraculous legends and stories of answered prayers are shared during festivals and pilgrimages, deepening the chapel’s spiritual resonance (Cantal Tourisme).

Preservation and Community Engagement

Conservation of the chapel is a collaborative effort, involving local authorities, heritage organizations, and volunteers. Restoration projects, supported by public and private funds, have recently focused on stabilizing the structure and conserving artworks (Fondation du Patrimoine). Community members play a key role as volunteer guides and stewards, ensuring the chapel’s enduring vitality.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours & Tickets

Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday and Religious Holidays: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Hours may vary during festivals or religious services (horairedemesse.fr).
Admission:
- Free entry for all visitors.
- Donations are welcome to support maintenance.

Accessibility and Facilities

Accessibility:
- Street-level entrance; interior sanctuary accessed via six steps.
- Wheelchair access is partial; contact the tourism office for assistance.
Restrooms:
- Not available in the chapel; nearest public restrooms at Place du Square and Place de l’Hôtel de Ville.
Seating & Lighting:
- Benches and pews available; well-lit interiors during opening hours.
Photography:
- Non-flash photography for personal use permitted; commercial use requires permission.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided Tours:
- Available for groups (10+) upon request via the Aurillac Tourist Office.
- Tours in French and English; brochures in multiple languages.
Special Events:
- Major events include the August 15 pilgrimage and Festival d’Aurillac concerts.
- Check local listings for current schedules.

Travel Tips and Getting There

Location:
- 27 Rue de la Coste, Aurillac, in the historic center (wikimonde.com).
Parking:
- Nearby lots: Parking du Gravier and Parking de la Gare.
Public Transit:
- SNCF train station (1.2km) and TUA city buses provide easy access (Aurillac transport info).
Nearby Amenities:
- Cafés, restaurants, and boutiques nearby.

Nearby Attractions

Abbatiale Saint-Géraud: 9th-century abbey, Romanesque architecture.
Église Notre-Dame-aux-Neiges: 13th-century church, notable stained glass.
Historic Town Center: Timber-framed houses, bustling markets.
Musée d’Art et d’Archéologie: Regional art and archaeology exhibits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the chapel’s opening hours?
A: Monday–Saturday 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sunday and holidays 10:00 AM–7:00 PM. Hours may vary during festivals.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, admission is free; donations are appreciated.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, for groups and upon arrangement through the tourist office.

Q: Is the chapel accessible for people with disabilities?
A: The entrance is street-level, but steps to the sanctuary limit full access. Contact the tourist office for details.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Non-flash photography is allowed for personal use.

Q: Are services held at the chapel?
A: Yes, regular Masses and special liturgies on feast days.

Summary and Final Tips

Chapelle Notre-Dame d’Aurinques is a cornerstone of Aurillac’s spiritual and cultural life, blending a rich historical past with vibrant community activities. Free admission, accessible hours, and a central location make it an inviting stop for all. To make the most of your visit:

Plan around Marian feast days for unique events.
Explore nearby historical sites for a richer cultural experience.
Use official resources like the Aurillac Tourism website, Audiala app, and local brochures.
Support preservation through donations or purchases from local artisans.