Le Puy-en-Velay

The prefecture of the Haute-Loire, otherwise known for its lacework, is now experiencing more than ever the departure point of one of the best known routes of Saint-Jacques of Compostelle, the via Podiensis.


Godescalc (951), bishop of Puy, is one of the first known "Jacquaires". Underneath the Notre-Dame cathedral where the pilgrims practised the benediction.

Every morning from spring to autumn, the pilgrims preparing to take the route were blessed at the foot of the statue of the black virgin.

The fountain of the Plot square, departure point of the long way.