The Basilica of Notre-Dame-du-Roncier is a minor basilica of the Roman Catholic Church located in Josselin, Brittany, France. It also serves as the parish church for the local community. The basilica stands at the corner of rue Olivier-de-Clisson and place Notre-Dame. Its striking architecture makes it a key landmark in the town.
The bell tower is one of the most notable features of the basilica. It rises above the town, offering stunning views of Josselin and the surrounding area. Visitors can access the bell tower via place Alain-de-Rohan. The tower is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the summer and on Heritage Days.
The church is a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles, with detailed sculptures and stained-glass windows. These windows depict scenes from religious history. Inside the basilica, the atmosphere is peaceful and reverent. The altar, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is a central focus of worship. Many visitors take time to appreciate the beauty and serenity of the space.
Beyond its religious role, the basilica is a symbol of Josselin's rich history and heritage. It has been an important part of the town for centuries. Today, the basilica continues to serve as a place of prayer and reflection. It also attracts visitors interested in its architecture and history. The basilica stands as a testament to the town's long-standing traditions and cultural significance.
To reach Josselin, including the Basilica of Notre-Dame-du-Roncier, there are several transportation options available by air, rail, and bus. Here's how you can get there:
By Air:
The nearest major airport to Josselin is Rennes–Saint-Jacques Airport (RNS), located approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) from Josselin. This airport serves domestic and European flights. From Rennes, you can take a train or bus to Josselin.
From Rennes Airport: Take a taxi, or use public transport to reach the train station. Then, take a train from Rennes Station to Ploërmel (about a 1-hour journey). From Ploërmel, you can take a local bus or taxi to Josselin (around 15 minutes).
Other airports in the region include:
Nantes Atlantique Airport (about 150 km from Josselin)
Lorient Bretagne Sud Airport (about 80 km from Josselin)
By Rail:
The nearest train station to Josselin is Ploërmel Station, located around 15 kilometers away. You can travel by train from major cities like Paris, Rennes, or Nantes.
From Paris: Take a TGV (high-speed train) from Gare Montparnasse to Rennes (about 2 hours). From Rennes, transfer to a regional train to Ploërmel. From Rennes: A regional TER train can take you directly to Ploërmel in about 1 hour.
From Ploërmel, you can take a local bus or taxi to Josselin.
By Bus:
There are several bus lines that serve the region around Josselin, including services from nearby towns and cities.
From Rennes: You can take a coach from Rennes bus station to Josselin. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. From Ploërmel: Local buses connect Ploërmel to Josselin, with a short ride of around 15 minutes.
Make sure to check schedules for trains and buses in advance, as they may vary depending on the time of year or day of the week.
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