NOTRE-DAME DE FOURVIÈRE BASILICA
2025
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The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière fascinates and intrigues by its whiteness and its unusual lines for a religious building.
Built in the late 19th century, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière has become the sacred emblem of Lyon. Dominating the city from the top of the "hill that prays", the basilica fascinates and intrigues with its whiteness and unusual lines for a religious building, giving it the affectionate title of "upside-down elephant". The imposing edifice was built on the site of a Marian shrine, on which a small chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary had been built. This sanctuary had to be enlarged over the centuries as pilgrims to Mary became increasingly popular. In 1870, Archbishop Jacques Ginoulhiac vowed to enlarge the sanctuary if the town was spared by the Prussian armies. The city was spared, and on December 7, 1872, the first stone of the edifice designed by architect Pierre-Marie Bossan was laid. Fourvière is a veritable "mystical citadel" of rough stone, flanked by four towers that give it the appearance of a fortress of faith. It's also a lacework of finely chiselled stone, lavishly decorated with mosaics, all inserted in a Byzantine style rarely used in France. From the dark crypt to the luminous church, visitors are offered a whole symbolic journey. While the decorations were far from complete - they would not be until 1964, a century after work had begun! -the consecration of Notre-Dame de Fourvière took place on June 16, 1896. Today, the basilica remains the most visited monument in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. To get to Fourvière, take the metro (funicular from Vieux Lyon), as parking spaces are scarce. Just off the metro station, Fourvière impresses visitors with its white western facade. From the forecourt, you can access the two churches that make up the edifice. The lower church, which is not really a crypt, is a real pilgrimage. The upper church, accessible by double-flight staircases, features mosaics telling the story of the Virgin Mary. The Fourvière museum houses superb pieces of sacred goldsmithery and fascinating temporary exhibitions. Another must-see is the Toits de Fourvière. After climbing 345 steps, visitors reach paradise as they walk across the roofs of the basilica, discovering what goes on behind the scenes. The panorama from up there is fantastic. Fourvière, Lyon's most beautiful "vision".
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Opening time and information on NOTRE-DAME DE FOURVIÈRE BASILICA
Open Monday to Saturday, 7am to 8pm; Sunday, 7am to 9pm. Free admission for children under 5. Discovery tour: €8/adult; €4/reduced and children (aged 5 to 17). Unusual tour: €14 to €18/adult; €7 to €9/child. Tickets available on site or online. Tourism & Handicap label. Store.
Members' reviews on NOTRE-DAME DE FOURVIÈRE BASILICA
The ratings and reviews below reflect the subjective opinions of members and not the opinion of The Little Witty.
Inside, it's nothing short of spectacular. Every surface gleams with gold paintings, intricate mosaics, and beautiful embellishments. The vibrant, colorful mosaics, especially those depicting scenes from Mary's life, are mesmerizing. You can really feel the rich history and devotion poured into this place. The use of luxurious materials like white Carrara marble, pink Italian granite, and blue Savoy marble, along with touches of silver and gold, just adds to the opulent feel. Don't miss the crypt, dedicated to Saint Joseph; it's a more subdued space but equally significant.
But beyond the architectural beauty, the panoramic view of Lyon from the basilica's esplanade is absolutely unforgettable. Perched high on Fourvière Hill, you get an unrivaled vista of the entire city – the Presqu'île, the Saône and Rhône rivers stretching out below. It's hands down the best vantage point in Lyon for photos, and simply for soaking in the incredible urban landscape. I even managed to do the rooftop tour, which was a truly unique experience, allowing me to walk on the basilica's roofs and get an even more extraordinary perspective. If you have the chance, definitely do it!
It's clear this basilica holds deep historical and spiritual significance for Lyon. Built in the late 19th century, it stands as a powerful symbol of the city's enduring devotion to the Virgin Mary, believed to have protected them through various historical crises. It's still an active place of worship and a major pilgrimage site, which adds to its powerful atmosphere.
Getting there was a breeze; I took the funicular from Vieux Lyon, which I highly recommend as the climb up the hill is quite steep. Once at the top, not only do you have the basilica, but you can also explore the ancient Roman theaters and the metallic Fourvière Tower. The Rosary Gardens nearby are also a peaceful spot for reflection and offer even more lovely views.
All in all, the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a magnificent architectural marvel, a spiritual sanctuary, and the best spot for incredible city views. It was truly a highlight of my visit to Lyon, and I can't recommend it enough!