The oratories in Châtel

There are also about twenty oratories in Châtel, called "lou perdons" in regional dialect.

Some are quite old and built with local stones ; other ones are more recent and often use wood or concrete. Oratories were founded as a sign of gratitude for a blessing, or to protect paths, mountain pastures and livestock against avalanches, floods or diseases, ecc. To discover these buildings and other famous sites of Châtel, a map describing the heritage of the village is available at Châtel Tourisme and the Vielle Douane (in French - 2 euros) It proposes 4 walks around the themes of architecture, crafts, smuggling and the border...