This series of pictures depicts one of the major attractions of La Belle Epoque's Burgundy experience.

The Golden glow of the Basilique Ste Madelaine crowning Vezelay's hill is amazing from the air and is visible from afar at ground level.

Our visit follows the footsteps of pilgrims , ascending the narrow street to the former abbey church. In the 12th century, at the height of its glory, the abbey claimed to house the relics of Mary Magdalene and it was one of the starting points for the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostella in Northern Spain.

Today the main attraction, apart from the outstanding views, lies in the Romanesque church with it's magnificent sculptures and Gothic Choir.

The Tour St Michael was built in 1230 and derives its name from the statue of the archangel in the tower's south west corner. The Tour St Antoine was built at the same time as the choir in the late 12th century. Its northern side counterpart was never finished.

The capitals in the nave and carthex are equistitively carved and give the rendering of the stories of classical antiquity and the bible. The master who created them remains unknown.

The Crypt of Ste Madelaine still houses the relics of Mary Magdalene in the Carolingian crypt. The Vault was rebuilt in 1165.