For 900 years, the Basilica at Vézelay in France has been noted for its beauty and the revelations it inspires. Dedicated to Mary Magdalene, it is linked to her arrival in France, and the basilica’s crypt is purported to hold a relic of the saint.
This landmark was the focus of a Louisiana Chapter of The French Heritage Society event at which members and invited guests were treated with a presentation about the basilica’s history and preservation.
Basilica expert Christopher Kelly was the guest speaker, who has also been to other FHS chapters throughout the U.S. talking about the basilica.
The work at Vézelay is representative of the important work the French Heritage Society, which was founded in the U.S. in 1982, undertakes in its mission of preservation of French architectural and cultural legacy, among its other work in education and fostering French-American relations.
Susan Villere, Pierre Villere and Michael Harold are the co-chairs of the Louisiana Chapter of The French Heritage Society.
Fun Fact: The New Orleans Country Club, where the evening event was held, got into the French spirit serving a classic poulet rôti for dinner.
