For over 20 years, the Rocamadour Festival has enchanted music lovers from around the world with sacred and baroque music concerts in an absolutely unique setting: the medieval sanctuaries clinging to the cliff face. An unforgettable musical and spiritual experience in the heart of the Lot region.
Every summer in August, the ancient vaults of the Saint-Sauveur Basilica and the Saint-Amadour Crypt resonate with the most beautiful works of the sacred repertoire, performed by internationally renowned ensembles.
A Unique Festival in France
The Rocamadour Festival stands out for its exceptional setting. Concerts are held in the 12th-century sanctuaries, a pilgrimage site that has welcomed kings, saints and pilgrims since the Middle Ages.
The Acoustics of the Sanctuaries
The Romanesque vaults of the basilica offer exceptional natural acoustics, particularly suited to sacred music and a cappella voices. The ancient stones, polished by centuries of prayers, create a unique resonance that enhances baroque and medieval works.
A Programme of Excellence
The festival welcomes internationally renowned ensembles each year, specialising in:
- Baroque music: Bach, Vivaldi, Handel, Monteverdi
- Gregorian chant: medieval polyphony
- Renaissance music: motets and madrigals
- Contemporary creations: works inspired by the sacred
- World music: sacred traditions from East and West
When Does the Festival Take Place?
Practical Information
- Period: Every mid-August (approximately 10 days)
- Venue: Sanctuaries of Rocamadour (Saint-Sauveur Basilica, Saint-Amadour Crypt)
- Concert times: generally 9:00 PM
- Prices: from 15 to 35 euros depending on the concert
- Booking: recommended (limited seating)
The detailed programme is announced each spring. Here is an overview of the usual highlights:
Opening Concert
First day of the festival - 9:00 PM
Grand opening evening with an internationally renowned vocal ensemble. Works from the Renaissance and Baroque periods.
Gregorian Chant Night
During the festival - 9:00 PM
Immersion in medieval polyphony by candlelight in the Saint-Amadour Crypt.
The Great Voices
Mid-festival - 9:00 PM
Baroque music recital with soloists and chamber orchestra.
Closing Concert
Final day - 9:00 PM
Grand festival finale with choral ensemble and orchestra.
Tickets and Bookings
How to Book?
Seats for the Rocamadour Festival are limited (approximately 300 seats per concert). Advance booking is highly recommended:
- Online: on the official festival website (sales open in spring)
- On site: at the Rocamadour Tourist Office
- By phone: +33 5 65 33 22 00
Prices
- Full price: 25 to 35 euros
- Reduced rate: 15 to 25 euros (students, job seekers)
- Festival Pass: discounted rate for multiple concerts
- Free: under 12 years old (subject to availability)
Top Tip
The most popular concerts (opening, closing, Gregorian Chant Night) often sell out several weeks in advance. Book as soon as tickets go on sale!
Practical Tips for the Festival
Access to the Sanctuaries
The sanctuaries are accessible:
- On foot: via the Grand Staircase from the village (216 steps) or via paths from L'Hospitalet
- By lift: inclined elevator from the village (fee required)
- Reduced mobility: access possible via the lift
What to Bring?
- Warm clothing: the churches are cool even in summer (bring a cardigan)
- Comfortable shoes: for the stairs and cobblestones
- Arrive early: 30 minutes before the concert to settle in
- Torch: for the return journey down the stairs at night
Where to Stay During the Festival?
August is peak tourist season in Rocamadour. Accommodation fills up quickly, especially during the festival. Book several months in advance.
Stay at Hotel Les Vieilles Tours
Just 3 minutes from Rocamadour, our charming hotel offers peace and quiet after the concerts. Enjoy our swimming pool and terrace with views over the Causses.
Book Your RoomThe advantages of staying at Les Vieilles Tours during the festival:
- Proximity: 3 min by car from the sanctuaries
- Private parking: essential in high season
- Guaranteed peace: away from the village bustle
- Easy return: after night concerts
- Swimming pool: to refresh during the day
See our complete guide: Where to Stay in Rocamadour.
What to Do During the Day?
With concerts taking place in the evening, make the most of your days to explore the region:
In Rocamadour
- Visit the sanctuaries: free access during the day
- Le Rocher des Aigles: birds of prey in free flight
- La Foret des Singes: 150 macaques roaming free
- The ramparts: panoramic views over the canyon
In the Surroundings
- Gouffre de Padirac (15 min): underground river by boat
- Autoire, Loubressac, Carennac (20 min): Most Beautiful Villages of France
- Alzou Canyon Hike: guaranteed freshness
- Local markets: Quercy regional produce
Other Events in Rocamadour
If you cannot visit in August, other events mark the year:
- Les Montgolfiades (late September): spectacular hot air balloon launches
- Rocamadour Cheese Festival (Whitsun): celebration of local produce
- Marian Week (mid-September): pilgrimage and celebrations
In Summary
The Rocamadour Festival is a unique experience combining musical excellence and exceptional heritage. Whether you are a seasoned music lover or simply curious, attending a concert in the ancient sanctuaries is an unforgettable moment of grace.
Mark mid-August in your diary and remember to book your accommodation and concert tickets as soon as spring arrives!
