Southern Burgundy Romanesque ChurchesLe Villars

Below are some photos of the Romanesque Church in Le Villars. The church is dedicated to Sainte-Marie-Madeleine and was built sometime during the 11th and 12th century by Benedictines. They were part of a priory based in Tournus, just down the road.

Sainte-Marie-Madeleine is unique in Burgundy in that there are two naves covered by one roof. The church also has buildings on both sides meaning you can’t walk around it. The only way to see the entire bell tower is to walk through the church to the apse and turn right. There is a door that leads to a room with farm equipment on display. There is then a door that leads outside. Once outside you can see the bell tower and a view of the Saône River and Burgundy countryside.

The highlight of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine is the 12th century fresco found in the church’s apse. It is of Christ in Glory and was found a few years ago during renovations.

Le Villars is a few miles south of Tournus. Just take the N6 national road direction Macon and Le Villars is the first village on your right. The sign is small so keep your eyes open! The church is in the center of the village next to the Mairie.

Mix of an old postcard and photo from 2013 of a street in Le Villars.

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