The Virgin of Biakorri, also known as the Virgin of Orisson or Virgin of the Shepherds, stands on a rocky outcrop more than 1,000 metres above sea level in the French Pyrenees, beside the Route Napoléon of the French Way. Located roughly halfway along the demanding stage between Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and Roncesvalles, the statue has become a small open-air shrine where pilgrims stop to rest, pray or leave shells, flowers and other offerings before continuing across the mountains.
The Virgin is traditionally regarded as the protector of shepherds, livestock and pilgrims in an area known for sudden and violent storms. Local pastoral communities continue to honour her with a mountain pilgrimage and Mass around the Feast of the Assumption. For pilgrims heading towards Santiago, Biakorri is one of the most symbolic landmarks of the Pyrenean crossing, offering a moment of prayer and contemplation before the route continues towards the Bentarte and Lepoeder passes and descends to Roncesvalles.
- Address
9850 Rte Nāpoleon, 64220 Saint-Michel, France - Web
None - Visiting Hours
Always open - What to see
Statue of the Virgin
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