Saint-Émilion: The Complete Guide

Saint Emilion France

Saint-Émilion, located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, is a charming, medieval village renowned for its beautiful vineyards and world-class wine. Surrounded by rolling hills covered in vines, the town offers a picturesque setting perfect for wine lovers. Visitors can wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, visit quaint wine cellars, and enjoy guided wine tours that showcase the region’s rich viticulture. The village is also home to stunning architecture, including its ancient church and towers, offering both a cultural and scenic experience.

For those looking to immerse themselves in the wine culture, Saint-Émilion is a must-visit destination. You can take part in wine tastings at local châteaux, learn about the wine-making process, and sample some of the finest Bordeaux wines. The town is also home to beautiful gardens, perfect for a peaceful stroll, and a variety of delightful cafes and restaurants offering local delicacies. Whether you are a wine enthusiast or simply looking to explore a charming French village, Saint-Émilion offers a serene and enriching escape.

History of Saint-Émilion

Early History of Saint-Émilion

The origins of Saint-Émilion can be traced back to the Roman period, though it is primarily known for its development during the early Middle Ages. The area was originally a small settlement that grew around the presence of vineyards and local agriculture. By the 8th century, Saint-Émilion became associated with religious significance due to the arrival of Saint Émilion, a hermit who lived in a cave and is said to have attracted many followers. This marked the beginning of the town’s religious and cultural prominence.

Saint-Émilion in the Medieval Period

During the medieval period, Saint-Émilion grew significantly, both in population and importance. The town became a center for pilgrimage, particularly with the establishment of monasteries and the Abbey of Saint-Émilion, which contributed to its religious and economic influence. As the town prospered, the surrounding vineyards began to take on more importance, and the area became increasingly known for its wine production. During this time, the town’s infrastructure grew, with many of its iconic stone buildings and streets taking shape.

Saint-Émilion in the Renaissance and Early Modern Period

In the Renaissance period, Saint-Émilion continued to flourish, though it faced challenges during times of religious conflict, such as the French Wars of Religion. Despite these difficulties, the town’s wine industry continued to grow, gaining renown in the region and beyond. The 17th and 18th centuries also saw the construction of several châteaux and wine estates, solidifying the region’s place in the wine world.

Saint-Émilion in the 19th and 20th Centuries

The 19th century marked a period of expansion for Saint-Émilion, especially as wine became a key part of the town’s economy and identity. The region’s wines gained international recognition during this time, particularly with the establishment of wine classifications that helped distinguish the finest wines of the area. Saint-Émilion’s growth continued into the 20th century, with the village becoming a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999 due to its historical significance and well-preserved architecture.

Saint-Émilion in the 21st Century

Today, Saint-Émilion is both a thriving wine-producing region and a popular tourist destination. Visitors flock to the town to explore its medieval streets, visit its wine estates, and admire its stunning architecture, including the Monolithic Church and the town’s towers. The region continues to be one of the most prestigious wine-growing areas in the world, and Saint-Émilion remains a symbol of both historical richness and wine culture.

Visiting Saint-Émilion for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Saint-Émilion on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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16 Best places to See in Saint-Émilion

This complete guide to Saint-Émilion not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Saint-Émilion and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Mairie de Saint-Émilion

Hotel De Ville De Saint Émilion Gironde
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Didier Descouens
Nestled just off the bustling Place de la Cadène, the Mairie de Saint-Émilion occupies a graceful 19th-century stone building that reflects the town’s timeless elegance. Its façade, framed by neatly trimmed hedges and climbing ivy, features arched windows and a classic slate roof topped with a modest belfry. Inside, you can admire a small collection of local historic documents and…
Location: Mairie de Saint-Émilion, Place Pioceau, Saint-Émilion, France | Hours: Weekdays from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM | Distance: 0.0km
Visiting Mairie de Saint-Émilion

We recommend to rent a car in France through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Bell Tower of the Monolithic Church

Monolithic Church Of Saint Émilion
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Gilles Messian
The Bell Tower of the Monolithic Church of Saint-Émilion is one of the most striking landmarks in the town, rising 68 meters above the medieval streets. Built between the 12th and 15th centuries, it reflects a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, showcasing the evolution of religious construction over time. The tower was reinforced at its base in the…
Location: Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion, Place du Marché, Saint-Émilion, France | Price: €2 (Pay at Tourist Office) | Website | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Bell Tower of the Monolithic Church

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Saint-Émilion . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Place de l'Eglise Monolithe

Place De L’Eglise Monolithe Saint Émilion
CC BY-SA 3.0 / JLPC
Place de l'Église Monolithe is the central square in Saint-Émilion, France, named after the town’s famous Monolithic Church. Historically, this square was known as Place du Marché, serving as the town’s marketplace where merchants and locals gathered for trade. Over time, its name changed to reflect the significance of the Monolithic Church, one of the most extraordinary underground churches in…
Location: 1 Place de l'Eglise Monolithe, 33330 Saint-Émilion, France | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Place de l'Eglise Monolithe

Explore Saint-Émilion yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Couvent des Cordeliers de Saint-Émilion

Cloître Des Cordeliers à Saint Emilion
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Lomer33127
The Couvent des Cordeliers in Saint-Émilion is a remarkable medieval site with a rich history dating back to the 14th century. Originally founded by the Franciscan monks, known as the Cordeliers, the convent was established within the town walls after their previous monastery was destroyed during the Hundred Years’ War. The Cordeliers followed the teachings of Saint Francis of Assisi,…
Location: Cloître des Cordeliers, Rue de la Porte Brunet, Saint-Émilion, France | Hours: January: Open weekends only from 10 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM. February – March: Open daily except Tuesdays from 10 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM. April – May: Open daily except Tuesdays from 10 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 6 PM. June – August: Open daily from 10 AM to 6:30 PM. September – October: Open daily except Tuesdays from 10 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 6 PM. November – December: Open weekends and public holidays from 10 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM. | Price: €4 Self-Guided / €7 for Guided tour of the Convent at 2:30 p.m. | Website | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Couvent des Cordeliers de Saint-Émilion

Porte de la Cadène

Saint Émilion View Through Porte De La Cadène
CC BY-SA 2.0 / londonexpat
The Porte de la Cadène is one of the most intriguing medieval landmarks in Saint-Émilion, France. This Gothic archway, believed to date back to the 13th century, once served as a symbolic boundary between the upper religious quarter and the lower secular town. The name “Cadène” is thought to originate from the Gascon word “catena”, meaning chain, possibly referencing a…
Location: Porte de la Cadène, Rue de la Cadene, Saint-Émilion, France | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Porte de la Cadène

Collégiale Chirch & Cloisters

Saint Émilion Collégiale Saint Émilion Cloister
CC BY-SA 2.0 / londonexpat
The Collégiale Saint-Émilion, also known as the Collegiate Church of Saint-Émilion, is one of the most significant religious monuments in the town. Built in the 12th century, it served as a residence for a community of Augustinian canons, who played a crucial role in overseeing religious life in Saint-Émilion. The church’s imposing structure, located in the upper town, reflects its…
Location: Saint-Émilion Collegial Catholic Church at Saint-Émilion, Place Pierre Meyrat, Saint-Émilion, France | Hours: Daily 8 AM to 8 PM Guided Tour available from the Tourist Office | Price: Free | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Collégiale Chirch & Cloisters

Monolithic Church of Saint-Émilion

Église Monolithe De Saint Émilion
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Chris06
The Monolithic Church of Saint-Émilion is an extraordinary underground church carved directly into limestone in the early 12th century. Measuring 38 meters long and 12 meters high, it stands as a testament to medieval religious devotion and architectural ingenuity. The church was created to honor Saint Émilion, a Breton hermit who settled in the area in the 8th century, and…
Location: Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion, Place du Marché, Saint-Émilion, France | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Monolithic Church of Saint-Émilion

Hermitage of Saint Emilion

Ermitage De Saint Emilion
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Floriane41
The Hermitage of Saint Émilion is a fascinating underground site located beneath the Trinity Chapel in Saint-Émilion, France. It is believed to be the cave where Saint Émilion, a Breton monk, lived as a hermit in the 8th century. Seeking solitude and devotion, he carved out a simple dwelling in the limestone rock, which later became a place of pilgrimage.…
Location: Rue du Marché, 33330 Saint-Émilion, France | Hours: Guided Tours (English) Daily at 11:00am or 2:00pm See Website | Price: €15.00 | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Hermitage of Saint Emilion

Chapelle de la Trinité, Saint-Émilion

Chapelle De La Trinité De Saint Émilion
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Chris06
The Chapelle de la Trinité in Saint-Émilion is a historic religious site dating back to the 13th century. Originally built as an oratory above the hermitage of Saint Émilion, it marks the place where the town’s namesake lived as a hermit in the 8th century. The chapel was constructed in a transitional style, blending Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements, with…
Location: 545 Rue de la Grande Fontaine, 33330 Saint-Émilion, France | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Chapelle de la Trinité, Saint-Émilion

Logis de Malet, Saint-Émilion

Logis De Malet, Saint Émilion
CC BY-SA 3.0 / M.Strīķis
The Logis de Malet is a historic building in Saint-Émilion, France, dating back to the 16th century. It was constructed against the perimeter wall from the 1200s, which was originally made up of the rear facades of Romanesque houses. Over time, the building underwent several modifications, particularly during the Hundred Years’ War and the Wars of Religion, when defensive features…
Location: Logis de Malet, Rue des Écoles, Saint-Émilion, France | Hours: Not open to the public | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Logis de Malet, Saint-Émilion

Grande Muraille of Saint-Émilion

Les Grandes Murailles, Saint Émilion, France
CC BY-SA 3.0 / JLPC
The Grande Muraille of Saint-Émilion, also known as Les Grandes Murailles, is the last remaining wall of a 12th-century Dominican monastery. Originally, the monastery was a grand structure, but it was deliberately destroyed during the Hundred Years’ War, leaving only this striking fragment standing. The Dominicans, a mendicant order, relied on charitable donations and lived modestly. However, the height and…
Location: Les Grandes Murailles, Saint-Émilion, France | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Grande Muraille of Saint-Émilion

Palais-Royal, Saint-Émilion

Ancien Palais Cardinal Saint Emilion
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Didier Descouens
The Palais Cardinal in Saint-Émilion is a historic structure dating back to the 12th century. It was originally a grand town house, later exaggeratedly called a "palace," and is believed to have been built for Gaillard de la Mothe, nephew of Pope Clement V. The building features Romanesque architectural elements, including arched openings with geometric and floral decorations, as well…
Location: Douves du Palais Cardinal 33330 France Saint-Émilion Le Bourg | Hours: View from the outside only | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Palais-Royal, Saint-Émilion

Washhouses of Saint-Émilion

Saint Émilion King’s Fountain
CC BY-SA 4.0 / FrDr
The King’s Fountain and the Place Fountain in Saint-Émilion are two historic washhouses that date back to the 19th century. These fountains were essential sources of water for the town, serving both practical and social functions. The King’s Fountain, the larger of the two, features a decorated front wall with intricate sculptures and was covered to provide shelter for washerwomen…
Location: Grande fontaine - Fontaine du Roi 1 Escalette de la Grande Fontai 33330 Saint-Émilion France | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Washhouses of Saint-Émilion

Porte Brunet, Saint-Émilion

Saint Emilion, Porte Brunet
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Pascal MOULIN
The Porte Brunet is one of the last remaining medieval gates in Saint-Émilion, France. Built in the 12th century, it was part of the town’s fortifications, commissioned by the English to protect the prosperous village. Unlike other gates that were destroyed over time, the Porte Brunet has survived, offering a glimpse into the town’s medieval past. The gate takes its…
Location: Porte Brunet, Rue de la Porte Brunet, Saint-Émilion, France | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Porte Brunet, Saint-Émilion

Tour du Roy

Le Château Du Roi
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Guiguilacagouille
The Tour du Roy or Château du Roi, also known as the King’s Keep, is a remarkable medieval tower in Saint-Émilion, France. It is the only intact Romanesque keep in the Gironde region, standing as a testament to the town’s rich history. The tower, built on a rocky massif, rises 32 meters from its lowest terrace to the top, offering…
Location: La tour du roy, Passage de la Tour du Roy, Rue du Château du Roy, Saint-Émilion, France | Hours: Closed Jan & Feb. March: Sat & Sun only April - Aug: Daily 2pm - 5pm | Price: €2 | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Tour du Roy

Château Soutard

Château Soutard
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Château Soutard
Château Soutard is one of the oldest wine estates in Saint-Émilion, dating back to 1513. Originally a farm and mill, it transitioned into a vineyard in the 18th century, becoming a key player in Bordeaux’s Right Bank wine scene. The estate was among the first in Saint-Émilion to adopt the practice of planting vines in rows, a technique that revolutionized…
Location: Château Soutard, Soutard, Saint-Émilion, France | Website | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Château Soutard

Best Day Trips from Saint-Émilion

A day trip from Saint-Émilion offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Saint-Émilion provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux France
Bordeaux is a captivating destination, offering a blend of historic architecture, scenic riverfronts, and world-renowned vineyards. Strolling through the city, visitors can enjoy the grand squares, like Place des Quinconces, and wander along the Garonne River, with its picturesque bridges and quays. The city’s dynamic cultural scene includes modern art galleries, charming cafes, and vibrant markets, making it an exciting…
Visiting Bordeaux
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Bergerac

Bergerac View In Late Afternoon
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Benjamin Smith
Bergerac, set along the gentle curves of the Dordogne River in the heart of the Dordogne department of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, makes a relaxed yet vibrant base for exploring southwestern France. Begin your day wandering the lively Old Town, where half-timbered houses and pastel façades line cobblestone streets. Pop into boutiques selling local wines and duck-fat-cooked delicacies, then pause at a riverside…
Visiting Bergerac

Périgueux

Périgueux, France
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Yiannis Vacondios
Périgueux, nestled in the rolling hills of the Dordogne department in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, offers a delightful blend of urban charm and verdant countryside. Start your day with a stroll through its bustling market halls on Place de l’Ancien Marché aux Grains, where local producers display vibrant arrays of walnuts, foie gras, wild mushrooms and regional wines. Quaint cafés spill onto the…
Visiting Périgueux

Arcachon

Arcachon France
Arcachon, located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, is a stunning seaside resort town known for its beautiful beaches and the iconic Dune du Pilat, Europe's tallest sand dune. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from surfing and swimming to hiking and cycling along the coastline. The town is surrounded by lush pine forests and offers serene views of the…
Visiting Arcachon

Cognac

Le Château Des Valois à Cognac
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Cobber17
Cognac sits on the banks of the Charente River in the Charente department of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, offering a picturesque blend of rolling vineyards and classic French town life. Arriving by train or car, you’ll immediately notice the elegant stone buildings and the gentle curves of the river as it winds through town. Stroll along the quai for riverside views,…
Visiting Cognac
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Sarlat-la-Caneda

Sarlat La Caneda France
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Chensiyuan
Sarlat-la-Canéda, located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, is a beautifully preserved medieval town known for its honey-colored stone buildings and lively markets. The old town is a maze of cobbled lanes, hidden courtyards, and grand Gothic and Renaissance facades, all begging to be explored on foot. Whether you're wandering through early morning stillness or during a bustling market day, the atmosphere…
Visiting Sarlat-la-Caneda
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Domme

Domme
Domme, located in the Dordogne region, is a picturesque medieval village that offers visitors a charming and peaceful atmosphere. The village is perched on a hill, providing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Dordogne River. Its narrow, winding streets are lined with quaint shops, cafes, and historic buildings, making it a lovely spot to explore on foot.…
Visiting Domme
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Rochefort

Place Colbert Rochefort
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Patrick Despoix
Rochefort, located in the Charente-Maritime department of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, welcomes visitors with its riverside charm and maritime heritage. Stroll along the Charente River quays to admire the elegant façades of 18th-century hôtels particuliers and watch traditional bateaux-mouches glide by. The atmospheric Place Colbert, lined with cafés and terraces, makes for an ideal spot to sip a coffee while soaking…
Visiting Rochefort

Cahors

Arches Cahors
Nestled in the rolling limestone hills of the Occitanie and Languedoc, Cahors makes an enchanting base for exploring the southwest of France. Begin your visit by wandering the medieval heart of town, where the graceful arches of the Pont Valentré soar above the lazy loops of the Lot River. Stroll along the riverbanks at sunrise to watch fishing canoes glide under the…
Visiting Cahors

Rocamadour

Rocamadour France
Rocamadour, in the Occitanie region, is a dramatic village built into the side of a limestone cliff, offering one of the most breathtaking settings in France. The vertical layout of the town, with its winding paths, stone buildings, and religious monuments stacked against the rock, creates a unique atmosphere that draws visitors from near and far. Walking through its narrow…
Visiting Rocamadour
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Where to Stay in Saint-Émilion

In the narrow, winding lanes of the medieval town, you can’t beat the timeless elegance of Hostellerie de Plaisance, where vaulted stone halls and antique oak beams set the scene for a quintessential Saint-Émilion stay. A few steps away, Le Logis des Cordeliers occupies a lovingly restored 18th-century convent, offering rooms that overlook the cloister garden. Tucked around the corner on a quiet side street, Château Logis de la Cadène blends intimate modern comforts with centuries-old timber framing and painted facades.

Just beyond the ramparts, where vineyard-draped slopes rise gently from the town, you’ll find grand country hotels with sweeping views. The Belle Époque wings of Château Grand Barrail stand amid manicured gardens and offer a Michelin-starred restaurant; its spa and tasting cellar provide a full immersion in Saint-Émilion’s terroir. A little further along the Route de Libourne, Château de Pressac welcomes guests with rustic-chic rooms, a peaceful courtyard pool and easy access to walking trails through the Merlot vines.

For a true estate experience, head into the surrounding countryside, where historic manors and family-run domaines open their doors. Domaine de Fompeyre is a former priory set among rolling hills, offering spacious suites and private wine tastings in its vaulted cellars. Nearby, Château Soutard provides elegant apartments within its 17th-century walls, plus guided tours of its grand crus. Just off the old pilgrim route, Château Le Pape combines serene gardens with a refined restaurant, making it an idyllic base for exploring both vineyards and village alike.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Saint-Émilion. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Saint-Émilion Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Saint-Émilion

Visiting Saint-Émilion in Spring

Spring (March to May) is a wonderful time to visit Saint-Émilion, as the weather begins to warm and the vineyards start to bloom. The rolling hills around the town are particularly picturesque with fresh greenery, and the flowers add a colorful touch to the landscape. It’s also a quieter time to visit before the summer crowds, making it perfect for those looking to enjoy the beauty of the town and its surrounding vineyards without the hustle and bustle.

Visiting Saint-Émilion in Summer

Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Saint-Émilion, with warm temperatures and long sunny days. This is when the vineyards are in full bloom, and the town is alive with festivals, wine events, and bustling outdoor markets. While it’s a lively and vibrant time to visit, it can also be crowded, so it’s best to plan ahead for accommodations and tours.

Visiting Saint-Émilion in Autumn

Autumn (September to November) is one of the best times to visit Saint-Émilion, as the harvest season is in full swing. The vineyards turn golden and red, creating a stunning backdrop for your visit. The cooler temperatures make outdoor activities like vineyard tours and wine tastings more comfortable, and the harvest festivals offer a chance to immerse yourself in the local wine culture. It’s a quieter time than summer, but still lively with the excitement of the grape harvest.

Visiting Saint-Émilion in Winter

Winter (December to February) is a more tranquil time to visit Saint-Émilion, offering a peaceful atmosphere and fewer tourists. While temperatures can be chilly, the town’s beautiful architecture and cozy wine cellars make it an ideal destination for a winter getaway. This is also a great time for indoor wine tastings and exploring the town’s historic sites without the crowds, making for a more intimate experience.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 10°C
  • February 13°C
  • March 16°C
  • April 20°C
  • May 24°C
  • June 26°C
  • July 30°C
  • August 30°C
  • September 26°C
  • October 23°C
  • November 15°C
  • December 12°C

How to get to Saint-Émilion

Getting to Saint-Émilion

Saint-Émilion is well-connected by air, train, and car, making it accessible for visitors exploring the Bordeaux region.

By Air

The nearest major airport to Saint-Émilion is Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD), located approximately 50 kilometers from the town. The airport offers numerous domestic and international flights. From the airport, visitors can take a shuttle, taxi, or rent a car to reach Saint-Émilion in about 40 minutes.

By Train

Saint-Émilion has its own train station, Gare de Saint-Émilion, located just outside the town center. The station is well-served by TER trains, which connect the town to Bordeaux and other nearby cities. From Bordeaux, the train ride takes about 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for those traveling by rail.

By Car

Driving to Saint-Émilion is a great option for visitors who want the flexibility to explore the surrounding vineyards and countryside. The town is easily accessible via the A89 and D670 highways, with a 40-minute drive from Bordeaux. Renting a car allows you to explore the scenic routes and nearby attractions at your own pace, including other wine-producing regions.

For a seamless car rental experience, consider booking through Discover Cars, where you can compare prices and find the best deals from various agencies.

Getting Around Saint-Émilion

Saint-Émilion is a small and walkable town, so many of its main attractions, such as the Monolithic Church and Place du Marché, are easily accessible on foot. The town also offers several guided walking tours, allowing visitors to learn about its history and vineyards while exploring. For those wanting to venture further into the surrounding vineyards, renting a bike or using a taxi or ride-sharing service is a convenient option.

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