Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière
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Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière - by Dennis Jarvis (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Description
The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière was built in the late 19th century with a design inspired by Romanesque and Byzantine architecture. The building actually consists of two churches on top of each other, the upper one being much more elaborate than the lower. There are four main towers and a belltower topped with a gold-gilded statue of the Virgin Mary. The highlight is the ornate interior of the upper church with its mosaics depicting the life of Virgen Mary.
Access & Transport
Address: 8 Pl. de Fourvière, 69005 Lyon, France The church is at the top of the Fourvière, in the 5th arrondissement. The easiest way to get there is by taking the funicular (F2) from Vieux Lyon-Saint Jean station or walking from the Saint-Jean neighbourhood. By car, go through the tunnel of Fourvière and take the first exit on the right immediately after the tunnel direction “Vieux Lyon”. Then turn left on the “Monté de Choulans” and right at the traffic light.
Instructions & Recommendations
This is one of the best spots for panoramic views of the city and it is also very close to the Gallo Roman ruins of Lugdunum (2 amphitheatres + museum).
Environmental & Social
We deem this activity environmentally neutral. Part of the city's architectural heritage.
Conclusion
The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a landmark on Lyon's city skyline. For some it is the views that make the trek up the hill worth the effort (the funicular is also an option) but those with an artistic penchant will be delighted by some of the features of the upper church interiors.
Key positive
Gorgeous interior of the upper church
Good views over the city from there
No entrance fees
Key negative
Not much background history given it is "only" 150yrs old
Suitability
No religious denomination restriction and accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:1h 15m
Monday07:30 - 19:00
Tuesday07:30 - 19:00
Wednesday07:30 - 19:00
Thursday07:30 - 19:00
Friday07:30 - 19:00
Saturday07:30 - 19:00
Sunday07:30 - 19:00