Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière – Lyon : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Located in France’s second city of Lyon, La Basilique de Notre Dame de Fourvière stands proudly atop Fourvière Hill overlooking the city. Since 1884 it has been a regular pilgrimage site for Catholics and a site of national significance. With its stunning art nouveau decor, beautiful stained glass, and stunning views of Lyon, Notre Dame de Fourvière is an unforgettable experience. This blog will provide interesting facts and information about this impressive landmark as well as provide travel tips for visiting La Basilique de Notre Dame de Fourvière.

Interesting Facts About Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière – Lyon

1. It is the second-largest votive church in the world after the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.

2. Fourvière was actually two churches, built in a staggered sequence. The Romanesque church was built between 1175-1230, while an important milestone of the basilica’s construction, the upper level and neo-Byzantine cupola, was completed in 1872.

3. During the French Revolution, the building was used as a food warehouse and artillery depot.

4. The basilica houses the oldest surviving Marian statue in Lyon – the Virgo Paritura, carved from the 12th century.

5. The basilica is now a major pilgrimage site for Catholics from all over the world. It is also home to the Archconfraternity of Saint Joseph, which protects the numerous devotions to the city’s patron saint.

6. During World War II, Fourvière bell tower was used by German forces to shoot at French Resistance members.

7. In 1914, the basilica hosted the first ever public assembly of a British-French official ceremony. The Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Herbert Henry Asquith, and the French President Raymond Poincaré, officially proclaimed the Entente Cordial — a collaboration treaty throughout World War I.

8. In 1993, an elevator was built to bring visitors to the observation platform of the basilica, providing one of the best views of the Rhône Valley.

9. The basilica has some of the finest examples of 19th-century stained-glass windows.

10. For most of the 19th and 20th centuries, the crowning cupola of Notre-Dame de Fourvière perched above the city of Lyon like a beacon, acting as a symbol of religious faith and a reminder of the city’s strong religious heritage. In acknowledgement of this fact, the basilica was awarded the honor of ‘minor basilica’ by Pope Pius XI in 1925.

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History & Information About Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière – Lyon

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a major Roman Catholic basilica located in the Saint-Just neighbourhood of Lyons, France. It stands atop Fourvière Hill overlooking the city and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. The basilica is known to locals simply as “La Colline de Fourvière” (Fourvière Hill).

The current basilica, built primarily as a monument to the Virgin Mary, was built between 1872 and 1884 and is a notable example of Roman and Byzantine architecture. Along with the nearby La Basilique de Notre-Dame de Fourvière (also known as “The Tourniers”), it is one of the most important religious sites in Lyons and is particularly popular with religious pilgrimages. It is also renowned for its spectacular views of the city below.

At the top of Fourvière Hill, visitors can also find other attractions, such as the Croix-Rousse (a cable car that takes visitors up to the hilltop) and beautiful parks and gardens. The basilica is a popular tourist destination as well as a place of Catholic worship and pilgrimage. It is a focal point for many solemn religious events and is also visited as part of private tours and programs showcasing the city’s rich history and culture.

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 due to its significance as an example of religious and architectural heritage.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière – Lyon

1. Getting There

The easiest way to get to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is by taking the funicular from the Vieux Lyon Metro stop (Line B or D). The funicular stops directly in front of the basilica, so you can enjoy the picturesque views along the way.

2. Where to Stay

There are several accommodation options within a short distance of the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, ranging from budget to luxury. Hotels within walking distance of the basilica include Hotel Royal Lyon MGallery, hotel ibis Lyon Vieux Lyon, and Quality Hotel Lyon La Part Dieu. Alternatively, there are plenty of vacation rentals in the area for those who wish to stay in the comfort and privacy of their own home.

3. Where to Eat

The area around the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is filled with wonderful restaurants. For a French bistro experience, head to Cafe Terral. For a romantic rooftop meal, try La plage de Fourvière. If you’re looking for traditional French cuisine (at a fraction of the price), head to La Fondue. Finally, don’t miss out on Chocolates de France, a boutique filled with delicious chocolates and sweets.

4. What to See

Apart from the beautiful basilica itself, there is plenty to see and do in the area around the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Be sure to visit the Place des Terreaux, a stunning public square in the heart of Lyon. There are also several beautiful parks and gardens in the area, such as the Parc de la Tête d’Or and the Parc de Gerland. You can also head to the Musée des Beaux-Arts or take a cruise on the Sâone River.

5. Don’t Miss

Finally, don’t miss out on attending the spectacular Festival of Lights, which is held annually at the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière in December. This is a spectacular event that attracts visitors from all over the world, and it is certainly worth your time and money.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière – Lyon

Q. What is the history of the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière?
A. The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière dates back to 1872 when construction began on the Roman Catholic minor basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is located on the hill which overlooks the city of Lyon in France.

Q. What is the style of the Basilica?
A. The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a Roman-Byzantine Revival Basilica, featuring a mixture of French, Spanish and Italian elements.

Q. What is the architecture of the Basilica?
A. The architecture of the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a mix of Romanesque, Renaissance and Neo-Gothic elements. The façade is mainly composed of sandstone bricks and decorated with numerous statues. Inside the Basilica, the structure is mostly composed of brick and marble, and the central nave is lined with soaring Byzantine-style domes.

Q. What is the interior of the Basilica like?
A. The interior of the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is truly breathtaking. There are several chapels inside filled with beautiful stained glass windows and artwork, and the main altar is adorned with mosaics and marble. The interior also features a variety of antiques, including a massive organ and several paintings.

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