Église Saint-Georges

Located in Orival, close to Elbeuf and south of Rouen, below the tall cliffs that tower above the Seine River, it is one of the only semi-troglodytic churches in the region.

It was founded in the 12th century at the time of the dukes of Normandy, but most of the present walls show that it was remodelled in the 16th century. In 1788, the church was enlarged. As it was not possible to do so towards the east, a 250 sq m area was dug into the cliff. Look closely at the picturesque bell tower, which is detached from the church as it was built on a rock above the building.

Inside, Saint Georges' Church still boasts an interesting collection of furniture including a pulpit dating back to 1728, a late 15th century polychrome Pieta and an eagle lectern from the 17th century.

The building was listed a Historic Monumentin 1927.

A Way of the Cross leaves from Saint Georges' Church and leads to a stunning panoramic view of the Seine Valley, with former semi-troglodytic houses along the way, including the hamlet of La Roche Foulon.