The Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière is one of the most famous landmarks in Lyon, France. Located in the heart of the city, the basilica is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the city’s rich history and culture. Built in 1872, the basilica was designed by Pierre Bossan and is a masterpiece of 19th century French religious architecture.
The basilica is situated atop the Fourvière hill and overlooks the city of Lyon. It is built in the Romano-Byzantine style and features a tall central dome and two smaller domes at each side. The main façade of the basilica is adorned with statues of the Virgin Mary and various saints. Inside, the basilica is richly decorated with mosaics, frescoes and stained glass windows.
The basilica is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and has become a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics. Every year, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims visit the basilica to pray and to honor the Virgin Mary. Every December 8th, a major pilgrimage is held in which hundreds of thousands of people walk up the hill to the basilica.
History of the Basilica
The history of the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière dates back to the mid-19th century. In 1871, the city of Lyon was in the midst of a cholera epidemic. To thank the Virgin Mary for sparing the city from the epidemic, the citizens of Lyon decided to build a basilica in her honor.
Construction of the basilica began in 1872 and was completed in 1884. The basilica was designed by Pierre Bossan and is a masterpiece of 19th century French religious architecture. The basilica was consecrated in 1896 and has since become a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics.
Notable Features of the Basilica
The Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière is a magnificent structure and is one of the most famous landmarks in Lyon. The basilica is built in the Romano-Byzantine style and features a tall central dome and two smaller domes at each side. The main façade of the basilica is adorned with statues of the Virgin Mary and various saints. Inside, the basilica is richly decorated with mosaics, frescoes and stained glass windows.
The Crypt
The basilica is home to a crypt, which houses the tombs of various important figures in the city’s history. The crypt is a popular tourist attraction and is filled with religious artifacts and artwork.
The Tower
The basilica also features a tall tower which offers stunning views of the city of Lyon. The tower is a popular tourist attraction and can be accessed by a lift.
Events at the Basilica
The Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière is a popular venue for various events throughout the year. The basilica hosts regular concerts, art exhibitions, and other cultural events. Every December 8th, a major pilgrimage is held in which hundreds of thousands of people walk up the hill to the basilica.
The Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière is one of the most important landmarks in Lyon and is a popular tourist attraction. It is a symbol of the city’s rich history and culture and is a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics. Whether you’re looking for a unique cultural experience or just want to admire the architecture, the basilica is a must-see destination in Lyon.