Churches and chapels
Churches and chapels
Churches and chapels of the Pays des Écrins
The Pays des Écrins is not just about its peaks: here, faith and stone tell centuries of history. From Vallouise to Freissinières, each village has its own pearl: a church, a chapel, an open-air mural… A spiritual and artistic walk in the heart of the Alps.
A dive into history through the stones
In Les Vigneaux, the church of Saint-Laurent, a masterpiece of the fifteenth century, surprises with its exterior frescoes representing the seven deadly sins. Admire its carved porch, Lombard bell tower, listed sundials, and surprisingly well-preserved murals. The keys? To be asked at the town hall!
The church of Saint-Etienne de Vallouise
In Vallouise, the Saint-Étienne church is imposing: a 45-metre bell tower, pink marble, a gilded altarpiece, and even medieval graffiti! Don’t miss the Chapel of the Penitents and its naïve frescoes. Higher up, in Ailefroide, the small chapel of Saint-Pierre has stood the test of time, discreet but emblematic.
The Saint-Vincent chapel in Puy Saint Vincent
In Puy Saint Vincent, on the road to Narreyroux, the Saint-Vincent chapel is worth a visit. Built after the visit of the preacher Vincent Ferrier, it houses rich frescoes from the fifteenth century denouncing the Waldensian heresy. Visitable in summer with a guide or a group of heritage enthusiasts.
Where to go?
Here are some nuggets not to be missed:
- Churches : Saint-Appolinaire (L’Argentière), Saint-Laurent (La Roche-de-Rame), Saint-Martin (Saint-Martin-de-Queyrières), Sainte-Marthe (Puy Saint Vincent), church of Champcella.
- Chapels : Notre-Dame de Narreyroux, Saint-Jean (L’Argentière), des Pénitents (Pelvoux), Saint-Jacques (Prelles), Saint-Hippolyte (Bouchier), Saint-Michel & Saint-Roch (La Roche-de-Rame), Saint-Laurent (Rame).
Want to know more? This summer, Elsa Giraud, tour guide, takes you on a journey through time through exciting guided tours. Also download the Hautes-Alpes Heritage app, perfect for not missing anything in the field.