Basilique de Vézelay - Fraternités Monastiques de Jérusalem
Vézelay Yonne Founded in 1993
On the eternal hill, a thousand years of pilgrimage
The Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine de Vézelay, in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, is a sanctuary animated since 1993 by the Fraternités Monastiques de Jérusalem, a community of brothers and sisters founded in Paris in 1975 to offer "spiritual oases" at the heart of the world. Three times a day, they gather in the basilica to celebrate the Liturgy of the Hours and the Eucharist, singing in polyphony inspired by the traditions of East and West. A masterpiece of Romanesque art listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this place marks one of the great departure points on the route to Santiago de Compostela.
Perched on its hill overlooking the Parc naturel régional du Morvan, Vézelay remains a premier destination for spiritual retreat and pilgrimage. Together with the rector and lay people, brothers and sisters provide hospitality, guest house services, spiritual tours, guidance, retreats, and formation programs for those seeking peace, beauty, and inner depth.
What awaits you
Upcoming retreats
Practical information
Liturgy
The brothers and sisters gather three times a day in the basilica for the Liturgy of the Hours and the Eucharist. Polyphonic chanting, inspired by Eastern and Western traditions, is at the heart of the sanctuary's life. Retreatants are welcome to participate freely.
Retreats
Stays of 2 to 6 days, individual or group, for students, young professionals, or adults. The program includes: the Divine Office, lectio divina, thematic teachings, fraternal sharing, and personal times of silence. Meetings with a brother or sister are available upon request.
Accommodation
Three guest houses in the village: Saint-Bernard, Sainte-Madeleine, and Béthanie. Single, double, or shared rooms depending on availability. Each house has an oratory or chapel for personal prayer.
Manual work
Retreatants are welcome to take part in simple tasks offered to guests: gardening, cooking, maintenance. These activities reflect the spirit of community life, with no obligation.
Surroundings
Vézelay overlooks the Morvan Regional Natural Park. Direct access to hiking trails: vineyards, the Assisi trail (1,500 km toward Assisi), and paths through the Morvan. La Pierre-Qui-Vire Benedictine Abbey is 30 km away.
Getting there
Sermizelle, then shuttle or on foot (10km)... easy and enjoyable!
2h45 from Paris, 3h from Lyon
Through the beautiful landscapes of Burgundy!