Attractions and Places To See around Domecy-Sur-Cure - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Domecy-Sur-Cure include historical sites, religious buildings, and natural landscapes. Located in France's Yonne department, Domecy-sur-Cure is situated near the Morvan Regional Natural Park, offering access to diverse natural features. The surrounding area features a rich tapestry of historical and cultural attractions, including UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Best attractions and places to see around Domecy-Sur-Cure
- The most popular attractions is Pierre-Perthuis Stone Bridge, a bridge that offers a great photo opportunity and views. It is located south of Pierre-Perthuis.
- Another must-see spot is Avallon, a settlement known for its medieval buildings and historical significance. Visitors can explore its collegiate church and enjoy the town's atmosphere.
- Visitors also love Cordelle Chapel, a religious building with a modest Romanesque decor. This site marks where Saint Bernard preached the Second Crusade in 1146 and was the location of France's first Franciscan monastery.
- Domecy-Sur-Cure is known for its historical sites, religious buildings, and natural features. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to scenic viewpoints.
- The attractions around Domecy-Sur-Cure are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 175 upvotes and 96 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: November 1, 2026
Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene in Vézelay
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Notre-Dame Church of Saint-Père
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The church Église Notre-Dame de Saint-Père is built in the Burgundian Flamboyant style and is considered a masterpiece of this stylistic phase of the late Gothic period. The three-nave church with its 50-meter-high bell tower was built in the 13th century and has been a listed historical monument since 1840. The two chapels were added in the 14th/15th centuries, and the narthex in the 15th century. The iconography of the church is not very revealing, but inside you can find a rather worn portrait of a miser, who is holding onto his money bag, which hangs around his neck. He is flanked on the left and right by dragons, which seem to be biting off his ears. This symbol can be interpreted in a double sense: The man pretends to be deaf, although he has the means to help (egoism), or the man is so fixated on his possessions that he forgets to protect himself – to do something good for himself (greed as an obsessive disorder). The open narthex is the most richly decorated. For more than two centuries, sculptors were able to realize their ideas here and stonemasons could demonstrate their artistic craftsmanship. Upon entering the covered narthex, you see two statuettes on the right in half-relief, which are said to depict Girart de Roussillon and his wife Berthe, or his daughter Eve. They are considered the founders of the former abbey of Saint-Père.
Probably the church (formerly an abbey) served as the final stop for pilgrims on their way to the tomb of St. Mary Magdalene in Vézelay.
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Cordelle Chapel
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The 17th-century southern porch is the remnant of a Franciscan church.
The place called La Cordelle, at the foot of the Eternal Hill towards Asquins, marks the spot where Saint Bernard preached the second crusade in 1146. The Romanesque chapel was built in the mid-12th century by the abbot of Vézelay in memory of this great historical event. It is also the site of the first Franciscan monastery in France, founded in 1217 around the chapel. Long forgotten, the chapel is now reoccupied by the Franciscans and open to visitors.
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Avallon
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This is composed of a central nave flanked by two side aisles. You will notice the difference in level of almost 3 meters between the portal and the choir. The height of the pillars as well as the cord which surmounts them follow, like the floor of the church, the slope of the rocky spur on which it is built.
The current organ was built in 1850 by the Grenoble maker Nicolas Chambry, in a classical style from the 16th and 18th centuries. At the same time, a new musical universe is emerging for organists and Avallon is joining in...
When you leave, don't forget to go to the apse of the Collegiate Church to admire the Romanesque cornices whose sculpted modillions (sculpted architectural element supporting a cornice) are interesting.
Source: “The Frog Circuit”
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Saint Martin Church
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If during the French Revolution the building served as a remand center, barracks or factory, in 1804, it resumed its religious function and became the second parish church of Avallon under the name of Saint-Martin Church.
In 1829, the bell tower was transferred from the roof of the Ladies Chapel to that of the current nave. Proving too small as a parish church, the building underwent major transformations in 1850...
In 1840, Father MUARO, founder of the Abbey of Pierre-qui-Vire, then parish priest of Saint-Martin, installed the reliquary of Saint-Clement, the shrine and the Main Altar.
Despite all these construction restarts, the whole Church remains homogeneous, recalling the vaults of Saint-Vorles in Châtillon-sur-Seine or that of the Abbey of Fontenay-près-Montbard,
(Extracts from bulletin n°3 of the “Friends of old AVALLON”)
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The hermitage of La Cordelle is the first Franciscan settlement in France. Located at the foot of the Vézelay hill, the hermitage of La Cordelle is today inhabited by three brothers who live the heart of the Franciscan mission there: fraternity and the attentive welcome of all, believers or not.
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This church, dedicated to the Holy Cross (Latin: "Santa Croce"), derives its patronage from the cross on which Jesus Christ died. The veneration of the Holy Cross is largely based on Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great (who, after his victory at the Milvian Bridge in Rome, recognized Christianity as a religion and ended the long period of persecution with the Edict of Toleration of Milan in 312). She made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land (Israel/Palestine) in the early fourth century and brought numerous relics back to Europe, including the "True Cross," on which Jesus Christ was crucified. Helena is therefore often depicted with a cross as an attribute. The Church celebrates the Feast of the Discovery, public presentation, and veneration of the Holy Cross—called the "Exaltation of the Holy Cross"—on September 14th.
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Very worthwhile visit to this beautiful church
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Very small chapel with a Franciscan monastery. The monastery was only returned a few years ago. The monks are trying to rebuild the monastery through a project
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The town of Avallon is home to very old monuments such as the Saint-Lazare church which is in front of you and a little further on the Clock Tower. The city center is very pleasant with its squares and fountains, and its very beautiful Maison des Sires de Domecy. By heading towards Quarré-les-Tombes you will see several islands located on the course of the Cousin, as well as remarkable old bridges spanning it. The statue of the famous Avallon frog, which you will not fail to see, was sculpted in Châtillonnais stone by Yvan Baudoin.
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Saint Martin, to whom the church in Avallon is dedicated, is - along with Saint Nicholas - probably one of the most popular saints of all. The memorial day of the former officer in the Roman army is November 11th. On the night after the famous “parting of the coat,” when he leaves half of his army cloak to a freezing beggar, Jesus Christ appears to him in a dream. He then converted to Christianity and was later elected bishop of Tours (France) - initially against his will.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore near Domecy-sur-Cure?
The region is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Avallon, known for its medieval buildings and historical significance. Another notable site is the Pierre-Perthuis Stone Bridge, a Roman bridge offering great photo opportunities. Further afield, consider the UNESCO World Heritage site of Vézelay Abbey and its Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, or the historic Château de Bazoches, once home to Marshal Vauban.
Are there any significant religious buildings to visit?
Yes, several. The Notre-Dame Church of Saint-Père is a masterpiece of Burgundy Flamboyant style. You can also visit Cordelle Chapel, which marks where Saint Bernard preached the Second Crusade and was France's first Franciscan monastery. Within Avallon, the Saint Martin Church is also a significant religious landmark.
What natural features or viewpoints are there to see?
Domecy-sur-Cure is on the edge of the Morvan Regional Natural Park, offering diverse natural landscapes. You can find beautiful views from the Pierre-Perthuis Stone Bridge. The statue of Notre-Dame-de-Lumière, perched atop a hill in Domecy-sur-Cure, also provides panoramic views of the area. The Morvan Park itself features forests and lakes like Lac du Crescent and Lac des Settons.
What kind of hiking trails are available near Domecy-sur-Cure?
There are various hiking opportunities. You can explore trails like 'The 3 Bridges Loop Trail' or the 'Trail along the River Cure – Pierre-Perthuis Stone Bridge loop'. For an easier option, consider the 'Panorama of the Cure – Statues of Farmers and Cow loop'. Find more details and routes on the Hiking around Domecy-Sur-Cure guide.
Are there cycling routes for touring bicycles or mountain bikes?
Absolutely. For touring cyclists, routes include 'Bazoches, Saint-Aubin-des-Chaumes et la vallée de La Cure' or the 'Bridge over the Cure – Vézelay loop'. Mountain bikers can tackle trails like 'View of Vézelay' or the 'Nice dirt track – Lake Crescent loop'. Discover more options on the Cycling around Domecy-Sur-Cure guide and the MTB Trails around Domecy-Sur-Cure guide.
What are some family-friendly activities or attractions in the area?
Many historical sites like Avallon and the Notre-Dame Church of Saint-Père are considered family-friendly. For a dedicated family outing, Cardoland, an amusement park in Chamoux, is about 11 km away.
Are there any charming villages or towns to visit nearby?
Yes, the region is dotted with picturesque villages. Avallon is a very pleasant town with imposing medieval buildings. Further out, Noyers-sur-Serein is recognized as one of France's 'Most Beautiful Villages' with its half-timbered houses, and Semur-en-Auxois is considered one of Burgundy's prettiest villages.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Domecy-sur-Cure?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth and scenic beauty. The Pierre-Perthuis Stone Bridge is loved for its photo opportunities and views. The medieval charm of Avallon and the architectural grandeur of the Notre-Dame Church of Saint-Père also receive high praise for their impressive nature and historical significance.
Can I find local markets to experience regional products?
Yes, several nearby towns host local markets. Avallon has a market on Saturdays, Corbigny on Fridays, Clamecy on Saturdays, and Saulieu also on Saturdays. These markets are excellent places to experience local life and find regional products.
What are some lesser-known historical sites or 'hidden gems' in the area?
Beyond the major landmarks, consider visiting the Archeological site Les Fontaines Salées near Foissy-les-Vézelay, which offers a glimpse into ancient history. Within Domecy-sur-Cure itself, the Lavoir Musée d'Usy provides insight into local traditions and history.
Is there a castle to visit within or very close to Domecy-sur-Cure?
Yes, the Château de Domecy-sur-Cure is a notable historic castle located directly within the village. Additionally, the historic Château de Bazoches is only about 3 km away, and Château de Chastellux is approximately 7 km distant.
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