Saint-Vincent Chapel

The Saint-Vincent chapel, set on the rocks of Collioure

At the end of the cove of Collioure, at the tip of the jetty, the little Saint-Vincent chapel seems almost to float between sky and sea. Beaten by the waves on its schist rock, it marks the edge of the inhabited world and offers one of the purest views over the bay. The Collioure audio-guided tour gladly leads to it, time enough to grasp how attached the locals are to this maritime landmark.

A chapel born from a legend

The chapel was built in 1701 on a schist rock, on the spot where, according to a stubborn local tradition, Saint Vincent, patron of Collioure, is said to have been martyred. The legend remains strong, but it speaks of the saint's importance to the town: his relics were kept here and he was proclaimed its patron. Each summer, the feast of Saint Vincent is still one of the great events of Collioure.

What to see

The interest of the place lies as much in the chapel as in the walk to it: the jetty that leads there, the surf all around and the view over the harbour, the old town and the bell tower of Notre-Dame-des-Anges. It is a simple, memorable goal for a stroll, especially at the end of the day when the light warms the stone. The chapel is mainly seen from the outside, most of the pleasure being in the setting and the walk to the tip of the rock.

Practical information

The chapel stands at the end of the jetty that closes the cove of Collioure, reachable on foot from the centre along the seafront. The path is short, over ground that is sometimes uneven and exposed: in rough seas the tip can be swept by spray, so caution is advised. It is mainly seen from the outside; there is no ticket office, as access to the site is free.

Can you visit the Saint-Vincent chapel?

It is mainly seen from the outside, at the end of the jetty; the appeal lies above all in the walk and the view over the bay. Access to the site is free.

Why is the chapel dedicated to Saint Vincent?

Saint Vincent is the patron of Collioure: according to local tradition, the 1701 chapel marks the supposed place of his martyrdom, and his relics were venerated in the town.