Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is located in Lyon, France. It was privately funded and built between 1872 and 1896 on the highest point of the city. This Catholic minor basilica offers guided tours, houses a Museum of Sacred Art, and welcomes over 1.5 million visitors each year.

Dominating the summit of Fourvière Hill and rising above the city, the basilica offers a prime vantage point for panoramic views of Lyon and has become a symbol of the city. The cathedral blends Romanesque and Byzantine architectural styles and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, who is said to have saved Lyon from the plague in 1643. A gilded statue of the Virgin was added in the mid-19th century to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the event. Today, at the beginning of December each year, the entire city of Lyon lights candles to give thanks for the Virgin’s protection. The exterior of the church is adorned with marble and fuses Byzantine and medieval European styles. It features four main towers and a bell tower topped with a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary.

The interior is decorated with exquisite mosaics and frescoes, while its colorful stained glass windows shimmer with vibrant patterns in the sunlight. The dome is painted with intricate designs, and the biblical stories told through bas-reliefs on the walls exude solemn grandeur.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Must-visit reason: Lyon’s most majestic basilica

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: France[France]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Rhône-Alpes Region [Rhône-Alpes Region]

City where the attraction is located: Lyon [Lyon]