Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde in Marseille

Perched on a rock at an altitude of 157 meters, the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde basilica has watched over the Phocaean city for 800 years. With a breathtaking architectural beauty, it is the most visited monument in Marseille.

The history of the Bonne-Mère

In 1214, a Marseille priest named Master Pierre decided to build a sanctuary dedicated to the cult of the Virgin Mary. Over time, the chapel located on the Garde hill was enlarged to accommodate more worshipers. But from the 15th century, the place also became a strategic post for the defense of Marseille. Indeed, the hill offers a panoramic view of the port, the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding islands. The place of worship is therefore added a watch post doubled as a military fort which ensures the maritime protection of the city.

In the mid-19th century, more and more pilgrims visited Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde. The sanctuary is now too small to receive all the faithful: a new building must be built. It was the architect Henry Espérandieu who directed the construction of the new Basilica. They will last from 1853 to 1897.

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Visit the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica

This Romanesque-Byzantine style monument consists of two parts.

• The lower church: this vaulted crypt of a very simple Romanesque style has a nave lined with 6 side chapels.
• The upper church: the sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin is richly decorated with marbles, gilding and mosaics.

Since the Middle Ages, Notre-Dame de la Garde has been considered the guardian of Marseille sailors and fishermen. Therefore, both churches are decorated with countless offerings to the Bonne-Mère (paintings, drawings or models of boats). Moreover, a monumental statue of the Virgin and Child measuring 11.2 m high adorns the top of the basilica. Facing the big blue, she watches over the Phocaean city and its inhabitants.

Just like the La Major cathedral, the Mucem or the Longchamp Palace, the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde basilica is one of the must-see places in Marseille. Easily accessible on foot or by small tourist train, the visit to the Bonne-Mère allows you to enjoy an exceptional panorama of Marseille and its surroundings!

Book your hotel near the Marseille basilica

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The B&B HOTELS Marseille have a privileged location, in the immediate vicinity of Marseille parks and the main tourist sites.

Do you want to stay in the city center? Prefer our hotels in La Joliette, Les Ports, Euromed, or La Timone. You will be a stone's throw from the historic districts of the Old Port or the Panier. If you prefer to sleep away from the center, choose the Marseille la Valentine hotel or Prado Vélodrome.

We welcome you in double or family rooms, bright and comfortable, with private bathroom and unlimited wifi. Take advantage of all the low-priced B&B HOTELS services such as the all-you-can-eat breakfast, remote check-in or access to a closed and secure car park. Book your stay in the Phocaean city now!