At the beginning of the 19th century, the castle of Rocamadour and its sanctuary were in advanced disrepair. The Bishop of Cahors then launched a lottery to raise the funds necessary for their reconstruction. The castle was raised partly on the ruins of the 14th century, whose ramparts remained. It later housed the chaplains and still belongs to the diocese. A small private staircase led them discreetly to the chapel. Although the sanctuary is not open to visits, a building welcomes pilgrims and allows beholding the valley from the ramparts.