La Haye-de-Routot’s Tree Chapels

In the small village of La Haye-de-Routot in Normandy, France, stand two extraordinary yew trees, each more than 1,000 years old. They grow directly in front of the local church, Église Notre-Dame. Like many ancient yews, their trunks have hollowed over centuries while the trees continue to thrive.

One of these trees shelters a tiny chapel dedicated to Saint Anne. Built in 1866, it fits entirely inside the living tree. You can step through the trunk and stand where villagers once came to pray. Although it no longer seems to be used for services, the space remains intact and open to visitors.

The second tree holds a small altar dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes. Created in 1897, this one is still occasionally used for worship and small devotional gatherings.

The chapels are free to visit, and parking is available right in the village.