Places of pilgrimage - Pilgrimage to Redon Espic

Redon Espic

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On a soft September day the lady arrives early at the tiny circular shrine, to be sure of sharing a few moments alone with Notre Dame.

The well house is already fragrant with the masses of flowers brought earlier in the day. Candles flicker in the soft draught from the unglazed window. The gentle song of insects brings peace.

Quickly she pulls off her sturdy walking shoes, slips on her dainty 'best'. Another pilgrim arrives but, preferring not to intrude on her privacy, leaves quietly to return later.

She says a silent prayer, fervent as she knows how. Later, when her prayer has been answered, she will return with her votive offering in thanks for the blessings of Notre Dame.

Meanwhile, pilgrims from far and near gather at the ancient Abbey above. More candles are lit. Prayers are offered. Ave Marias are sung.

Leaving the cool stone building slowly, we savour these moments of benediction. At last all are gathered on the soft turf beyond the ancient doorway. Led by the elderly priest we wend our way slowly down the lane, singing a sacred chant just as generations have before us.

We arrive once more at the circular stone well-chapel.

The lady with the shoes joins our prayers.

We are all blessed.

The tiny circular baptistry of Notre Dame de Redon Espic is set in a magical valley close to the D25 between Sarlat and St Cyprien (on the river Dordogne) in the Périgord, SW France. The baptistry is overlooked by ruins of the former abbey which stand on promontory above.

This enchanting shrine is very well frequented, and there are always many recent votive offerings and flowers.

Notre Dame de Redon Espic draws large crowds for the Pilgrimage which takes place here each year on September 8th, as does the pilgrimage to nearby Notre Dame de Fonpeyrine and to ND de Rocamadour in the Lot.

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