VéZELAY

'Vézelay' is a commune in the Yonne ''département'' in the Bourgogne ''région'' of France.
It is principally noted for Vézelay Abbey (Basilica of St. Magdalene), sited here since the 9th century.

Contents

History

Wine

External links

History

According to legend, not long before the end of the first millennium a monk named Baudillon brought relics (bones) of Mary Magdalene to 'Vézelay' from Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume. In 1058 the Pope confirmed the genuineness of the relics, leading to an influx of pilgrims that has continued to this day. Vézelay Abbey was also a major starting point for pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela, one of the most important of all medieval pilgrimage centres. This was crucially important in attracting pilgrims and the wealth they brought to the town.
In 1189, the Frankish and English factions of the Third Crusade met at Vezelay before officially departing for the Holy Lands.

Wine

'Burgogne Vézelay' is the local wine appellation. Vineyards descend to the edge of the town and produce a range of mostly white wines, based mainly on the Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Melon de Bourgogne grape varieties. About half of the production is marketed through the Cave Henry co-operative.

External links

★ About the commune and the Vézelay Abbey

★ Adrian Fletcher's Paradoxplace – Vezelay Page - Photos