Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière
General Information
Denomination
Catholic
Address
Chemin du Rosaire Col. Lyon 5e Arrondissement
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Francia
C.P. 69005
Location
Find the approximate location of Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière
Location data: © OpenStreetMap contributors via LocationIQ | Visualization: Google Maps
How to Get There
Address: Chemin du Rosaire Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Francia
About Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière
📜 History
This majestic basilica was built between 1872 and 1896 atop Fourvière Hill, overlooking Lyon for over a century. Its construction fulfilled a vow made during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870. Architect Pierre Bossan created a unique design fusing Romanesque and Byzantine styles, a bold choice that rejected traditional Gothic architecture. The basilica replaced an ancient medieval chapel and represents the Marian devotion of Lyon citizens, quickly becoming a symbol of the city's religious and cultural identity. The project embodied the Catholic revival of 19th-century France.
🏛️ Architecture
Pierre Bossan designed an exceptional architectural masterpiece measuring 86 meters long and 35 meters wide, combining Romanesque and Byzantine elements in an innovative synthesis. The structure features four main towers crowned by a bell tower with a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary gleaming in sunlight. Its walls display dazzling mosaics, colorful stained glass, and detailed sculptures. The interior reveals extraordinary ornamental richness with polychrome vaults, precious marbles, and frescoes narrating Marian history, creating a mystical atmosphere that transports visitors to another realm of spiritual contemplation.
⭐ Key Facts
The basilica stands as one of Lyon's most recognizable symbols and an important Marian pilgrimage destination in France. Every December 8th, thousands of Lyon citizens participate in the traditional Fête des Lumières, illuminating windows to honor the Virgin. Its strategic position on Fourvière Hill offers spectacular panoramic views over Lyon and the Alps, attracting millions of annual visitors. The basilica houses a museum preserving sacred art and votive objects, testifying to popular faith. Its unique architecture influenced other church designs and represents a milestone in French religious art evolution.
An architectural jewel combining faith, art, and history atop Lyon, offering unique spiritual experiences to all visitors.
Information verified by the EncuentraIglesias editorial team
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