Notre-Dame d’Espérance Church

With its breathtaking view over the Bay of Cannes, this church definitely enjoys a privilege few religious buildings can claim. Standing at the very top of the old Suquet district, Notre-Dame d’Espérance took over a century to complete. While construction officially ended in 1627, the church has undergone several expansions over the centuries to accommodate a growing number of worshippers. Originally named Sainte-Anne Chapel, it took on it’s current name of Notre-Dame d’Espérance in 1645. Its architecture is a mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Renaissance styles, and the church is especially known for housing a remarkable mechanical nativity scene from the 1920s — complete with over 200 animated and static figures. Should you wish to see this little gem, you’ll have to plan ahead as it’s only on display from December to February.