Notre-Dame de la Garde

Notre-Dame de la Garde is a Catholic church in Marseille, France. It is built on a hill south of the Old Port (Vieux-Port) and is one of the most famous symbols of the city. The church is often called "la bonne mère" ("the good mother") by the people of Marseille.

History

Early buildings

A small chapel was first built on the hill in 1214 by a local priest named Pierre. In the 15th century, it became a place of pilgrimage. In 1516, King Francis I visited and decided to build a stronger fort on the hill to protect the coast. A small chapel was included inside this fort.

19th-century church

The current basilica was built between 1853 and 1864 during the Second French Empire. It was designed by architect Henri-Jacques Espérandieu in a Neo-Byzantine style, which means it was inspired by Eastern Christian art and architecture. It replaced the old chapel.

Architecture

Outside

The church is built with green limestone and white marble. It has a large bell tower, 41 meters tall, with a big statue of the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus on top. This golden statue is 11.2 meters high and weighs over 9,000 kg. The bell tower itself is 60 meters above the ground, and the church is built on a 149-meter-high hill, so it can be seen from far away.

Inside

The inside of the church has colorful mosaics covering over 1,200 square meters. Many of the mosaics show prayers of thanks, ships, and symbols of faith. The walls also display many small gifts and memorials from people who were saved from danger. These are called ex-votos and include paintings, medals, and even model ships.

Religious and cultural importance

Notre-Dame de la Garde is a very important religious site in Marseille. Sailors and fishermen have prayed here for protection for centuries. Many people still visit the basilica to ask for help or give thanks.

Every year on August 15, many people go there to celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of Mary.

Tourism

The basilica is one of the most visited places in Marseille. Visitors come to see the church and enjoy the great views of the city and the sea from the hilltop. You can reach it by walking, by road, or by a special tourist train.

Protection

Notre-Dame de la Garde is protected as a Monument Historique (Historic Monument) by the French government since 1917.

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