Black Madonna of Pontoise

Carved in the thirteenth century, the Miraculous Virgin became one of France's most famous 'vierges à répit'—Virgins believed to grant stillborn babies breath for baptism. Royal patronage and documented miracles increased her fame. She survived the destruction of her church and continues to receive veneration.

A charter from 1231 mentions a Virgin statue at Pontoise, but the current figure dates from the second half of the thirteenth century. She is limestone, over two meters tall, described as 'fine and slender.' She once stood on the trumeau—the central pillar—of the medieval basilica's portal.

The reputation for granting 'répit' grew as parents reported signs of life in stillborn infants brought to her shrine. On July 18, 1630, the most famous miracle occurred: a stillborn child reportedly came to life before a large crowd, was baptized, and then died peacefully. The miracle was documented and widely reported, increasing pilgrimage significantly.

The medieval basilica was destroyed in 1589 during the Wars of Religion. The statue survived. The current church was built 1598-1600. The Virgin was installed in her present chapel, where she has remained.