Cathédrale de la Major, Marseille
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Cathédrale La Major - by Pierre Guillaumeau on Google
Description
The Sainte-Marie-Majeure Cathedrale, also known as La Major, was built in Neo-Byzantine style in the second half of the 19th century in the Joliette neighbourhood of Marseille, on the site of previous religious structures. The building is enormous: 146m in length and 70m high for the main dome. The choice of design mixing Roman and Oriental elements is in adequation with the city's Mediterranean origin and the construction materials were sourced from several countries (green stone from Florence, onyx from Italy, etc.). The main feature is the wide deambulatory with six chapels radiating from it.
Access & Transport
The Cathedral is next to the 2 "La Major" bus stops (82, 82S, 582 / 49) and 500m south of the Joliette metro station (M2). It is also a 10-15mins walk from the Vieux Port.
Instructions & Recommendations
We suggest combining this activity with an exploration of the Panier neighbourhood and a visit of the MuCEM (European & Mediterranean Civilizations Museum) and La Vieille Charité.
Environmental & Social
We deem this activity environmentally neutral. Preserves the city's architectural heritage
Conclusion
The Major is a prominent and striking edifice along the city waterfront; it is surprisingly recent (very few large churches were built in the 19th century in France). Since any traveller is sure to be in the area at some stage (MuCEM and the Panier neighbourhood are there), it would be a missed opportunity not to check it out and admire not just its exterior aesthetics but also its arresting interior.
Key positive
Original and photogenic exterior facade
Impressive architectural design, especially the various domes and large deambulatory
Key negative
None
Suitability
No religious denomination restrictions. Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 25m
est. visit time:1h
Start of Season 1:Apr, 01
MONDAY10:00 - 19:00
TUESDAY10:00 - 19:00
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 19:00
THURSDAY10:00 - 19:00
FRIDAY10:00 - 19:00
SATURDAY10:00 - 19:00
SUNDAY10:00 - 19:00
Start of Season 2:Nov, 01
MONDAY10:00 - 17:30
TUESDAY10:00 - 17:30
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 17:30
THURSDAY10:00 - 17:30
FRIDAY10:00 - 17:30
SATURDAY10:00 - 17:30
SUNDAY10:00 - 17:30