Basilica of St. Michael, Bordeaux 🇫🇷

Located at the heart of Bordeaux's ancient Saint-Michel quarter, the Basilica of St. Michael is a striking Flamboyant Gothic church built between the late 14th and 16th centuries. You will quickly discover why this historic site holds such incredible cultural prestige. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 as part of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela in France, it stands alongside St.

Severinus and St. Andrew cathedral as one of Bordeaux's major sacred landmarks. It has also been recognized as a minor basilica since 1903 and listed as a historic monument since 1846. When you step inside, make sure to examine the impressive pulpit, which depicts Saint Michael slaying the dragon, though note that the original stained-glass windows were sadly destroyed during bombings in 1940.

Outside, you cannot miss the separate 15th-century bell tower towering at an extraordinary 114 meters tall. Below this massive structure lies a fascinating history: in 1881, a Gallo-Roman cemetery and catacombs were discovered underneath, and for nearly two centuries, over 60 naturally mummified bodies uncovered during parish graveyard clearances were exhibited inside the crypt before being moved to the cimetière de la Chartreuse in 1979.

What to see at Basilica of St. Michael, Bordeaux

• Flamboyant Gothic architecture dating from the late 14th to 16th century
• UNESCO World Heritage Site status as part of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela
• An impressive pulpit depicting Saint Michael slaying the dragon
• A separate 114-meter-tall 15th-century bell tower
• Intriguing history of catacombs and mummies once displayed in the crypt

Visiting tips

Plan your visit between April and October if you want to explore the separate 114-meter bell tower, as it is open daily during those months.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: April to October

How to get there & what’s nearby

Basilica of St. Michael, Bordeaux is easy to reach on Bordeaux’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Bordeaux travel guide.