CROW ROCK AND OUR LADY OF FRANCE STATUE
Go there and contact
A colossal cast-iron statue of Notre-Dame-de-France dominates the city, offering calm, strength and serenity.
The Virgin and Child dominates the town, offering calm, strength and serenity. Made of cast iron, the colossal statue has dominated Le Puy-en-Velay since 1860. The project dates back to 1853, thanks to numerous donations and a national subscription campaign. 213 cannons taken from the Russians at the Battle of Sebastopol by General Pélissier were cast. They were handed over by Napoleon III to the bishop of Le Puy-en-Velay and cast at the Prénat factory in Givors. Notre-Dame-de-France was inaugurated on September 12, 1860 in front of 120,000 pilgrims. It remained the world's tallest statue until 1886, when it was dethroned by the Statue of Liberty in New York. Its sober, brick-red color is a real eye-catcher. Another distinctive feature is that it holds the Child in its right arm, whereas traditionally it is in the left, so that it can bless the city with its right hand without obscuring its mother's face. Completely restored in 2013, the Virgin has acquired new colors and welcomes visitors up to her crown after climbing 262 steps. The climb up to the monument is easily accessible on foot and features several rest points, a fountain, sanitary facilities and a souvenir store. It offers a breathtaking view of the town of Le Puy and extraordinary vistas of the cathedral, the old town and even the whole region, with an orientation table from its 757-metre height. It measures 22.70 metres including the pedestal, and weighs a total of 835 tonnes.
Did you know? This review was written by our professional authors.
Book the Best Activities with Get Your Guide
Members' reviews on CROW ROCK AND OUR LADY OF FRANCE STATUE
The ratings and reviews below reflect the subjective opinions of members and not the opinion of The Little Witty.
Find unique holiday offers with our partners
