Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, affectionately known by the people of Marseille as “la Bonne Mère”, is one of the most recognizable symbols of Marseille, located on top of a high hill overlooking the city and the port. Its history is deeply intertwined with that of Marseille, serving as a spiritual and military landmark throughout the centuries. The hill on which the basilica stands, known as La Garde, has been used since ancient times as an observation and defense point, thanks to its elevated position and proximity to the sea. In 1214, a priest named maître Pierre built a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary on this hill, a place that over time became an important pilgrimage site. The original chapel was later replaced in the early 15th century by a larger building, which incorporated a chapel dedicated to Saint Gabriel. In the 16th century, under the reign of Francis I, the hill gained greater strategic importance. In response to the threat of Emperor Charles V, Francis I ordered the construction of a fort to defend the city, integrating the existing chapel. This fort played a crucial role during the siege of Marseille in 1536. The presence of the fort next to a place of worship represents a unique example of coexistence between military defense and religious devotion. The current basilica, built in Neo-Byzantine style, was designed by architect Henry Espérandieu and its construction began in 1853, replacing the 13th-century church that had been destroyed during the French Revolution. The work took over 40 years to complete, and the basilica was consecrated in 1864. Its interior is adorned with rich decorations, including colorful mosaics and a striking crypt, which attract numerous visitors every year. A distinctive feature of the basilica is the golden statue of the Virgin Mary, 11 meters high and weighing almost 10 tons, towering over the city as a symbol of protection. This statue, made using the electroplating technique, an innovative process for the time, is visible from much of Marseille and serves as a landmark for sailors. Notre-Dame de la Garde is also a highly visited pilgrimage site, especially during the Assumption, when believers gather en masse to celebrate the ascent of Mary into heaven. The walls of the basilica are covered with ex-votos, offered as a sign of gratitude for the miracles attributed to the Virgin Mary, testifying to the deep devotion of the people of Marseille. The original fort, built with stones from the demolished city walls to prevent them from providing shelter to enemies, remains visible next to the basilica. This site represents a rare example of how military defense and religious faith can coexist in the same space.