The transformative power of symbols
A seminar on symbols at Vézelay
Symbols inscribed in stone by the sculptors of the Basilica of Vézelay in the 12th centurye They stand as immutable landmarks in the shifting sands of contemporary society.
Contextualised within the Judeo-Christian experience, myths, biblical stories and those borrowed from the Golden Legend are the very material of some 120 finely carved capitals. This seminar will look at six or seven of them in detail.
The age-old wisdom of our civilisations is sculpted in stone. The many pitfalls of human nature are portrayed with astonishing clarity, just as the innate greatness of the human being is subtly revealed.
These Romanesque capitals show us the ability of each of us to cultivate the divine within ourselves, to grow in wisdom and, in so doing, to help develop the full potential of humanity as a whole.
For the attentive observer, they can become precious indicators for growing in awareness, freedom and personal responsibility in the face of life's challenges.
A symbol is a universal key that opens the door to our inner world. It marks out our path through life as a succession of markers along a path. Symbols awaken us to contemplation, inviting us to rediscover the source of life within us and to trust our intuitions. They leave us free to embrace their transformative power.
From time immemorial, artists have created symbols to express their vision and their relationship with others and the world. The symbols in the Basilica of Vézelay, sculpted by unknown artists 900 years ago, still speak to us today, whispering timeless messages to our hearts in search of meaning.
The transformative power of symbols
A seminar for everyone
This two-day seminar is designed for those wishing to discover the symbols on the capitals of the Basilica of Vézelay, or to deepen their understanding of their symbolic meaning. Half a dozen capitals will be observed and deciphered, leaving room for individual interpretation.
Hosted by Hélène Ramin and Christopher Kelly, heritage guides from the Maison du Visiteur, the seminar will include sessions on
1 h 30 to 2 hours.
Course of the seminar
First day
| Appointment time | Programme |
|---|---|
|
9 h 30 |
Meet at the Visitor Centre |
|
9.30am - 10.00am |
Welcome of participants and presentation of the seminar programme |
|
10.00am - 12.00pm |
" Eye workshop "Exercising the eye by drawing in the basilica. |
|
Lunch break |
Free |
|
1.45pm - 2.15pm |
A brief presentation of Romanesque symbolism |
|
2.15pm - 3.45pm |
Study of four capitals in the basilica
|
|
3.45pm - 4.00pm |
Break
|
|
16.00 - 17.30 |
Return to the Visitors' Centre, study of the reference texts for the capitals, projection of details on a large screen and interpretations |
|
17 h 30 |
End of Day 1 |
Second day
| Appointment time | Programme |
|---|---|
|
9.00am - 10.30am |
Study of two capitals in the basilica
|
|
10.30am - 11.00am |
Return to the Visitors' Centre, study of the reference texts for the capitals, projection of details on a large screen and interpretations |
|
11.30 am - 12.30 pm |
Free time on the hill, time for meditation, religious service for those who wish... |
|
12.30 pm - 2.00 pm |
Lunch together at the Maison du Visiteur |
|
2.00 pm - 2.30 pm |
Personal writing time |
|
2.30 pm - 3.30 pm |
Resonances of each participant, exchanges and conclusion |
|
15 h 30 |
Closing of the seminar |
Practical information
- La Maison du Visiteur - Place Guillon, Vézelay
-
6 - 7 december (in French)
11-12 March 2026 (in French) -
The seminar : 120 (members €110, concessions €100, support €150 / €200)
Sunday lunch : 20 €
Further information
- + 33 (0)3 86 33 81 04
- maisonduvisiteur@orange.fr
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