Vezelay
This is a real must for every school itinerary. On the edge of Avallonais, Vezelay is a major site for Christianity just 20 minutes away by coach. The beautiful Church situated on a hill at the top of a charming village was granted the title of Basilica by the Holy See in 1920 and is dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalen whose relics are displayed for veneration in the crypt. It was named as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1979 and provides one of the 4 starting points in France for the pilgrim route to Santiago de Compostela.
Thomas Beckett chose Vezelay for his Whitsunday sermon in 1166, announcing the excommunication of the main supporters of Henry II and threatening the King with excommunication too.
The excursion includes a questionnaire in French during which pupils are helped to practice their spoken French with locals, a guided tour of the Basilica and the beautiful views and some free time for shopping.
More information about the area can be found at the tourist office website - Vezelay tourism
