Basilica of St. Michael

The Basilica of St Michael was built between the end of 14th century and the 16th century. It is at the heart of the ancient quarter of Saint-Michel.

The pulpit represents Saint Michael slaying the dragon. The stained-glass windows were destroyed during the bombardment of 1940. The separate bell tower, which is 114 meters tall, was built in the 15th century. The tower can be visited every day from April to October.

From the late eighteenth century until 1979, over 60 of the mummified bodies were exhibited in the crypt. In 1881 a Gallo-Roman cemetery and catacombs were discovered under the tower, with several naturally mummified bodies. The mummies were found in 1791 according to other sources, in the adjacent parish graveyard which, having become full, was being cleared, with remains being transferred to catacombs; they further state that the bodies were removed to the cimetière de la Chartreuse in 1979.

References:

• Wikipedia

Address

Rue des Allamandiers 20, Bordeaux, France

Details

Founded: 14th century
Category: Religious sites in France
Historical period: Valois Dynasty and Hundred Year's War (France)