Basilica of Notre-Dame de l’Épine

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de l’Épine is a 15th-century church in the village of L'Épine. Construction lasted from 1405 to 1527. It is a documented station on the pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela.

Architectural Features

The building is an example of Flamboyant Gothic architecture. The facade has three portals and two asymmetrical spires. The exterior includes 123 stone gargoyles. Inside, a stone rood screen from the late 1400s remains in place, which is a rare survival of this feature in France.

Historical Status

In 1998, the basilica was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The interior contains a 16th-century pipe organ and stone sculptures. The building is an active parish church and is open for public access with no entry fee.