Chapelle de Foncourrieu
This magnificent chapel was classified as a historical monument in 1988. Emblematic place for the wine growers of the Vallon, it also owes its fame to its magnificent 17th century painted ceiling.
LEGEND
According to legend, in 1338 a noble lady passed through this bramble- and reptile-infested area. A huge snake was said to have wrapped itself around one of her legs. Frightened, she implored the Virgin Mary to come to her rescue. Mary appeared to her and crushed the snake's head. In gratitude, the noblewoman built a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary, near a fountain that gave its name to the place ("fons currens" meaning running fountain, later became Notre Dame de Foncourrieu).
ARCHITECTURE
The Romanesque building has undergone numerous modifications. In the 17th century, the chapel was enlarged and fully decorated. During this period, the choir and the nave's panelled vault were entirely covered with magnificent paintings.
SAINT-BOURROU
The polychrome wooden statue of the Virgin Mary, in the attitude of the Magnificat (one hand on her heart, the other raised to heaven), dressed in a red robe, adorned with bunches of grapes and a blue mantle, is venerated by winegrowers who dedicate their vines to her. She is also the patron saint of children.
On Whit Monday, an open-air mass is celebrated on the occasion of the wine and winegrowers' festival known as Saint Bourrou (Bourrou means bud in Occitan).
VISITS
In summer, the Friends of Foncourrieu association opens the site to visitors on Sunday afternoons.
