The statue was sculpted by Jean-Marie Bonnassieux and cast at the Ruelle foundry in Charente.
It weighs 835 tons, including the massive stone pedestal.
The statue replaced a smaller wooden figure that previously stood on the rock.
The interior iron structure was designed by engineer Charles Sibille to withstand high winds.
It is painted red to match the volcanic stone of the Rocher Corneille, though the color is periodically refreshed.
The statue was inaugurated on September 12, 1860, in the presence of the Archbishop of Paris.
Notre-Dame de France is a monumental 16-meter-tall iron statue of the Virgin Mary situated atop the Rocher Corneille, a volcanic plug overlooking Le Puy-en-Velay. The statue was completed in 1860 using iron sourced from 213 cannons captured during the Siege of Sevastopol in the Crimean War. Visitors can climb an internal spiral staircase to reach the statue's crown for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Auvergne landscape. The statue rests on a stone pedestal and serves as a prominent landmark for pilgrims on the Via Podiensis route of the Way of Saint James. It is considered one of the largest iron statues in the world. The Rocher Corneille itself reaches an altitude of 757 meters above sea level.
The viewing platform inside the crown provides a 360-degree view, but the best external shot is from the base of the rock looking up.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the steep, uneven paths leading up the volcanic rock.
Bring a light jacket as temperatures are noticeably lower and wind speeds higher at the summit.
Check the weather forecast before ascending, as the summit viewing platform may close during high wind events.
Attempting the walk in flip-flops or open-toed shoes, as the path is steep and paved with loose volcanic rock.
Closed during the winter months; operational dates vary by year but typically open from spring through late autumn.
Respectful behavior is expected as it is a place of pilgrimage; avoid loud noise inside the narrow stairwell.
