Fromentières Oratory
Oratory located in the hamlet of Fromentières in the village of Villarembert.
Description
The oratories, which date from the 15th century, have a rural character, as they enabled peasants to devoutly pray to a patron saint or to God. However, it was also a place to give thanks and make offerings in the hope that the saint or God would protect them in return. In Montagnée, every year on 6 June, in a procession along a pastoral path, each family climbed up to their mountain chalet, with their animals (barnyard, dog, cat, cows, goats, sheep, pigs and mules carrying victuals): a priest accompanied them and blessed them, in front of the oratory: prayers were said for a favourable season in the mountain pastures, lush crops and protection for the livestock from lightning.
Villarembert has three surviving oratories.
Rates
Free of charge.
Opening time
All year round, daily.
Spoken languages
- French