Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière - Lyon (5ᵉ arrondissement)
Perched atop the Fourvière hill, the Basilique Notre-Dame is one of Lyon's most emblematic monuments. Built between 1872 and 1884, it combines neo-Romanesque and Byzantine styles, with its white facades, four distinctive towers and gilded statue of the Virgin Mary. The interior is richly decorated with mosaics, marble and stained-glass windows, offering a spiritual and grandiose ambience.
History and architecture
Designed by architect Pierre Bossan, the basilica was built in gratitude to the Virgin Mary after the 1870 war. Its architecture is inspired by oriental religious styles, and its interior decoration illustrates the life of the Virgin Mary. The more sober crypt is dedicated to Saint Joseph. Today, the site is a place of pilgrimage, meditation and cultural discovery.
Atmosphere and current use
As well as being an active place of worship with daily masses, the basilica attracts thousands of visitors every year. From its esplanade, it offers a remarkable panorama of the entire city. The site is particularly popular during the Fête des Lumières and in summer. Guided tours and access to the rooftops enhance the experience.
Practical info
- Address: 8 place de Fourvière, 69005 Lyon
- Opening hours :
- Esplanade gates: 7am - 9:30pm
- Basilica: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. (visits prohibited on Sunday mornings before 12:30 p.m.)
- Chapelle de la Vierge: 7am - 7pm
- Crypt: 8:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
- Prices: free access to the basilica; guided tours and access to the roofs at an additional cost: €8 full price, €7 for students, €4 for children
- Accessibility: accessible funicular, interior elevator, adapted paths; roof access not wheelchair accessible
- Access: funicular F2 from Vieux-Lyon; buses C20 and C20E; walk up via the Rosaire garden