Basilica of Fourvière

The Basilica of Fourvière, in Lyon

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière dominates Lyon from the top of its hill, an emblematic monument and a place of pilgrimage. The Lyon audio-guided tour stops here, with respect, to evoke this sumptuous nineteenth-century sanctuary, which watches over the town.

The sanctuary that watches over Lyon

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is the most emblematic monument of Lyon, which dominates the town from the top of its hill. It was built at the end of the nineteenth century, after the people of Lyon had dedicated the town to the Virgin, to whom they attributed its protection against epidemics and wars. A Virgin to whom Lyon pays tribute each year, on 8 December, during the famous Festival of Lights. The basilica, of neo-Byzantine and Romano-Gothic style, strikes by its monumental aspect, its four towers and its whiteness. Inside, the decor is of an exceptional richness: golden mosaics, marbles, sculptures, stained-glass windows and adorned ceilings compose a sumptuous ensemble, among the most impressive of France. A very frequented place of pilgrimage, the basilica also shelters an older chapel dedicated to the Virgin. From its forecourt, you enjoy one of the finest panoramas over Lyon. A major sanctuary and a symbol of the town, the Basilica of Fourvière is discovered with respect.

What to see

You admire, with respect, the most emblematic monument of Lyon, a neo-Byzantine and Romano-Gothic basilica built at the end of the nineteenth century, dedicated to the Virgin celebrated during the Festival of Lights, with a monumental aspect, four towers and a sumptuous interior adorned with golden mosaics, marbles and stained-glass windows, a place of pilgrimage offering a magnificent panorama over the town. The Basilica of Fourvière watches over Lyon. It is a major stop to be discovered with respect.

Practical information

The Basilica of Fourvière lies at the summit of the hill of Fourvière, in Lyon, reachable on foot by a climb or by the funicular. A place of worship and pilgrimage, it can be visited with respect for services; entry is generally free, but hours vary. It is best to check them before coming and to respect the sacred character of the place.

Why is the Basilica of Fourvière famous in Lyon?

Because it is the most emblematic monument of Lyon, which dominates the town from the top of its hill; built at the end of the nineteenth century and dedicated to the Virgin celebrated during the Festival of Lights, it strikes by its four towers and its sumptuous interior with golden mosaics.

Where is the Basilica of Fourvière of Lyon?

At the summit of the hill of Fourvière, in Lyon, in France.