Saint-Victor Abbey

Saint-Victor Abbey, a thousand-year-old sanctuary of Marseille

Near the Vieux-Port, Saint-Victor Abbey surprises by its fortress-like appearance. Founded in the fifth century, it is among the oldest sanctuaries of Marseille. The Marseille audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this place full of history and spirituality, a witness of the Christian origins of the city.

An abbey founded in the fifth century

Saint-Victor Abbey of Marseille was founded in the fifth century by John Cassian, making it one of the oldest monasteries of Western Christianity. Visible from the Vieux-Port, it has crossed the centuries, fortified in the Middle Ages, which gives it its massive appearance. Rich in history, it houses ancient crypts and remains a high spiritual place of the Phocaean city.

What to see

Here you discover the fortified church, its towers and especially its ancient crypts, among the most precious vestiges of early Christian Marseille. The abbey is also known for its tradition of navettes, small cakes linked to Candlemas. It is a major stop for lovers of history and religious heritage, near the Vieux-Port.

Practical information

Saint-Victor Abbey lies near the Vieux-Port of Marseille, on the south bank, reachable on foot. A working place of worship, the basilica is generally open every day; the visit of the crypts may be subject to particular hours and conditions. It is best to check them before coming and to respect the sacred character of the place.

When was Saint-Victor Abbey founded?

In the fifth century, by John Cassian; it is one of the oldest monasteries of Western Christianity, visible from the Vieux-Port of Marseille.

What is there to see at Saint-Victor Abbey?

The fortified church, its towers and its ancient crypts, among the most precious vestiges of early Christian Marseille.