Villemartin Chapel

The chapel of the most populated hamlet in the municipality of Bozel (350 inhabitants) stands right in the centre, and was founded in 1430 in honour of St James the Great, a temperamental man who would become Jesus' apostle. He is depicted as a bearded elder with a hat decorated with a shell, or dressed as a pilgrim with a travel bag and staff. Pilgrims began to travel the Way of St James after his burial place was discovered. Ever since 1935, the last weekend of July has been dedicated to this traditional pilgrimage route, and a celebration lasts for two days. Mass is held, a traditional soup is served to the poor, there are shows and a big public dance.The hamlet also harbours an oven that is still used on special occasions, as well as a bachal, a stone basin that was once used as a water source, a drinking trough for animals and washing place.The chapel can only be viewed from the outside.