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Saint-Victor Abbey, Marseille

Place Saint-Victor, Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

Description

The Abbey of Saint‑Victor was founded in the 5th century in Marseille, next to the tombs of martyrs, including that of Saint Victor. For several centuries it was an important religious institution in the Provence region and the Pope Urbain V, one of its abbots in the 14th century, fortified the complex that became part of the port defensive system. The monastery's started declining in the 15th century and closed during the French Revolution although the church remains operating for worship. The site is best known and visited for the necropolis inside the crypt.

Access & Transport

The Abbey is situated next to Place St Victor, in Marseille 7th Arr. Bus stop Saint-Victor (54, 55, 61, 80, 81) is the best way to get there by public transport but it is only 1km walk to the Vieux Port.

Instructions & Recommendations

We suggest combining this attraction with the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and/or the Vieux Port. The Marseille Soap Museum is also a short walk away.

Meta review

The monument is a little under the radar but mostly get excellent reviews. The average ones seem to be from visitors who have not gone into the crypt and find the church unremarkable. Highlights include the extremely well-preserved sarcophagi, 3-5th century necropolis and the Abbey's history. The various information panels also get the thumbs up.

Environmental & Social

We deem this activity environmentally neutral. Helps preserve the city's historical and architectural heritage.

Conclusion

The content of the Saint-Victor Abbey, especially its crypt, will not be of interest to everybody but for those keen on cultural activities it can turn out to be quite a gem. From an architectural standpoint, it also adds some cachet to the city's skyline when seen from the harbour.

Key positive

Long history and a rare example of early-Christianity necropolis

Very cheap entrance fee to the crypt and friendly service

Key negative

Church is quite ordinary

Suitability

The crypt is difficult of access and may not be suitable for younger children. The rest of the monument is suitable for all.

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

June 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
No visit during religious services.

av. transport time:0h 25m

est. visit time:1h 15m

Regulated hours

Monday09:00 - 18:00

Tuesday09:00 - 18:00

Wednesday09:00 - 18:00

Thursday09:00 - 18:00

Friday09:00 - 18:00

Saturday09:00 - 18:00

Sunday09:00 - 18:00

Pricing
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
€2
Adult
12 - 64
€2
Child
3 - 11
€0
Infant
0 - 2
€0
Price is for the entrance to the crypts

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