© PWilliamson
Eglise Monolithe Church, Saint-Emilion
Incredible underground church and catacombs
This church, sited in the higher part of Saint-Emilion town, is incredible underground feat, carved out of the rock over three centuries.
As large as a cathedral, it was built by Benedictine monks between the 11th and 12th centuries, and is the largest of its kind in Europe. It has a maze of tunnels that include vast catacombs. The bell tower sits an amazing 53m above the town and offers fantastic views over the area...if you have the energy to climb the 196 steps!
You can take a tour of the underground part of the church where you will discover much more about the heritage of Saint Emilion and the story of the monk Emilion who first settled there in the 8th century. There are some beautiful carvings and murals in the Trinity Chapel. Well worth a visit.
When to come
The church is open all year, although it will be much busier during the summer months of July and August.
How to book
There is a charge for the tour and numbers will vary but they will take a maximum of 50 people on each tour. You can book a tour on your arrival or if you wish to book in advance then it would be wise to telephone them. You can also book online using the website link above.
