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One of the oldest churches of Marseille |
10, place Daviel Marseilles 13002 +33 491 72 4347 |
The last relics of one of the oldest churches in Marseille, this building was built in the 12th Century and alterd in the 14th and 17th Centuries. It was destroyed during the revolution for hosting meetings of the sections who were outraged by the convention. Only the bell was saved. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Choral and chamber concerts |
65 Quai d'Orsay Paris 75007 +33 1 4062 0500 http://www.acparis.org/ bizadmin@acparis.org |
The American Church in Paris, a Protestant house of worship attended by a few French and foreigners from the world over, has taken advantage of the acoustic quality of its beautiful nave by establishing itself as an important concert venue in Paris. Various concerts are held here, including free recitals Sundays at 6p and a magnificent annual Christmas concert just before the holidays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Overlooking Paris |
35 Rue du Chevalier-de-la-Barre (Rue de la Bonne) Paris 75018 +33 1 5341 8900 http://www.sacre-coeur-montmar... |
This Romano-Byzantine basilica overlooks Montmartre, one of Paris's most picturesque districts. Its distinctive dome rising up over the rooftops, the basilica offers the perfect vantage point from which to survey the city. Inside, the mosaic of Christ and the crypt are of particular interest. Commissioned by the Catholic Church, construction began in 1875 under the watchful eye of architect Paul Abadie, and was finally completed in 1914. Admission: (basilica) free Review © 2007, Wcities |
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France's greatest cathedral |
6 Place du Parvis-de-Notre-Dame (Quai aux Fleurs) Paris 75004 +33 1 4234 5610 |
Climbing the 387 steps to the top of this masterpiece is well worth the effort for the spectacular view. Construction of the first great Gothic cathedral began in 1163 and was largely completed by 1212. The rebuilding of the two transept gates in 1270 marked its completion. The west face is adorned with three richly decorated doorways and crowned with two 69m towers. The cathedral is busy at the best of times; especially on Sundays, when much of the building is closed to visitors. Admission: cathedral is free, towers around EUR6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Decorated by Tobiasse |
Rue St-Sauveur Le Cannet, Alpes-Côte d'Azur 06110 |
Discover this attractive sixteenth-century chapel in the heart of the picturesque little village of Le Cannet, which is 3km from Cannes' centre. Built in stone, it was decorated in 1989 by Tobiasse, a very famous artist from this region (he lives in Saint-Paul de Vence for most of the year). He designed a mosaic pediment, stained-glass windows and painted wood panels, which make up a symbolic fresco, full of life, poetry and spirituality. Tobiasse was born in Israel in 1927. After living in Lithuania for a few years, he arrived in France in 1931. He came to Nice in 1950 and never left the region. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Beautiful Historical Church |
1 Rue Saint Etienne du Mont Paris 75005 |
One of the most beautiful and historically significant churches in France, the L'église St Etienne du Mont is the final resting place of St Genevieve (c.420–c.500), Blaise Pascal, and Jean Racine. Its construction began in 1492 and wasn't completed until years later. Inside, you will find fine crastmanship in the form of stone sculpture, wood carvings, and remarkable stained-glass designs. The architecture of the church is very extravagant, with large domed spaces lit by high windows, and long spirraling stone staircases. There are various panels inside that provide historical information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Royal Gothic |
2 Place du Louvre Paris 75001 +33 (0)1 4260 1396 |
Once set up in the palace of the Louvre, the royal family Valois (who ruled France between the 14th and 16th century) chose Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois as the church of the monarchy. After the French Revolution, the building lost its prestige since it was used to store fodder. Today, visitors can admire its 12th century roman tower and its stained-glass windows, which were restored in the 15th century. The portal, choir and the Virgin's chapel date from the 13th century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Napoleon's final resting place |
129 Rue de Grenelle Paris 75007 +33 1 4442 3375 http://www.invalides.org accueil-ma@invalides.org |
This large church, famous for its magnificent dome, is a typical example of baroque architecture. Built between 1679 and 1706 during the reign of Louis XIV and for his sole use, it was dedicated to the glory of Napoleon from 1840 and became his final resting place. His body now lies in a red porphyry coffin. In honour of all France's armies, military trophies adorn the ceiling and the remains of heroes like field-marshals Foch and Lyautey are buried here. The dome's exterior was gilted in 1715. Look out for its ceiling decorated by a frescoe representing Saint-Louis and Christ. The church is located in the hôtel des Invalides, a place offering many other interesting visits. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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History of the Franciscan way of life |
Place du Monastère de Cimiez Colline de Cimiez Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côted'Azur 6000 +33 4 9381 0004 |
Up on the hill in Cimiez, within the 17th-century monastic buildings, you'll find Nice's Franciscan museum, which charts the history of the Franciscan way of life from the 13th century to the present day. Visitors can admire the numerous works of art and various religious documents. In the 15th-17th century church, it is worth taking time look at the work of painter Louis Bréa: his portrayal of a recumbent Christ as well as a large baroque altarpiece in gilded wood. An archaeological museum, the Chagall museum and the Matisse museum are all nearby. Free entry. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A 19th Century church |
Place de Fourvière Lyon 69005 +33 4 7825 8619 http://www.fourviere.org/ info@fourviere.org |
Built between 1872 and 1884 by the architect Pierre Bossan, what has been nicknamed the "upside down elephant" is representative of the eclecticism of the end of the 19th century. The oriental and neo-classic influences (twisted columns and columned porticas) are mixed with architecture inspired by the medieval style machicolated towers, which creates a shocking fortress church. An observatory offers spectacular views, and under the basilica is a crypt, accessible from the esplanade. Admission ranges from free to EUR4. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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House of holy relics |
4 Boulevard du Palais (on Ile de la Cite) Paris 75001 +33 (0)1 5340 6080 sainte-chapelle@monum.fr |
Located in the center of the city within the Palais de Justice complex on the Ile de la Cite, La Sainte Chapelle (Holy Chapel) is a small Gothic chapel constructed in the Rayonnant style. Built by King Louis IX from 1238-1244, the chapel housed holy relics from the Passion believed to be Jesus' Crown of Thorns and a piece of the True Cross. These items were purchased from the Byzantine emperor Baldwin II in 1239 for a huge sum of 135,000 livres (the church cost 40,000 livres to build) due to the King's desire to elevate France as the leader of Western Christianity. La Sainte Chapelle provides visitors with a spectacular visual experience, since the entire upper tier of the chapel is surrounded by enormous stained glass windows. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ancient monastery by the sea |
Villeneuve-les-Maguelone Montpellier 34750 |
This historic site is situated 4 kilometres west of Palavas between the sea and lagoons on a small rise surrounded by vines. The earliest settlements on this site date from before Roman times. The 11th century saw the building of the monastery that merited being called "the second church of Rome". From the 13th century, however, the power and influence of Maguelone declined and after the bishop's seat was transferred to Montpellier in 1536, the site was gradually abandoned. In the 19th century restoration work began and now a major part of the ancient cathedral is open to the public, offering a peaceful haven from the summer heat. Admission: Free Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Provençal Gothic Church |
Place de la Castre Cannes, Alpes-Côte d'Azur 06400 +33 4 9339 1749 |
Completed in 1648, Notre-Dame d'Espérance is a beautiful Provençal Gothic church. Its charm lies in its wood panelling, which dates back to the 14th and 15th century. Also worth a look is the collection of 19th century paintings, which includes a fresco by George Roux that portrays the baptism of Christ. Statues of Saint Anne and Notre-Dame d'Espérance (both in gilded wood) from the 15th and 18th centuries are worth checking out. Situated on top of Suquet hill in old Cannes, the church offers visitors a fabulous view of the town and its bay. One of fishermens' favourite saints, Notre-Dame d'Espérance is also called upon to heal the sick. Mass is held every Sunday at 11a. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Historical Church |
Square Mérimée Cannes, Alpes-Côte d'Azur 06400 +33 4 9339 1622 |
On the Square Mérimée, in front of the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, stands the Notre-Dame de Bon Voyage church. Designed by architect Laurent Vianay, it replaced a 1580 chapel called Notre-Dame de Bon Port (behind which, after his escape from Elba, Napoleon spent a night in 1815). The main door of the church is beautiful and has been designed and crafted by ceramist and artist Roger Capron. Though a century has passed, the construction of the church is not yet entirely finished. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Neo-Gothic church rebuilt in 1844 |
53 Rue St-Georges Lyon 69005 |
Saint Georges catches the eye of passers-by on the quays of the Saône with its entirely neogothic harmony. The church was completely reconstructed in 1844 by the architect Pierre Bossan, who is famous for his eclecticism at Fourvière. The area of worship is however very old; a text by bishop Leidrade mentions that it was restored in the 9th century. Bossan took his inspiration from the gothic architecture of the end of the middle ages, judging by the classical stone tracery work, which runs all the way around the church. The nave is furnished with paintings and furniture from the 19th century in keeping with the uniformity of the church. Saint Georges is considered to be one of the more traditionalist churches of Lyons. Services are held at 7a & 6:30p M-F, 7a & 9a Sa, and 8:30a, 10a, 11:30a & 7p on Su. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Neobyzantian church |
57 Rue des Macchabées Lyon 69005 +33 4 7825 4326 |
Saint Irénée is one of the earliest Christian Gaul funeral basilicas, like Saint Just and Saint Laurent de Choulans. Archaeological digs in 1947 and then 1977 have allowed us to find out its precise origin, which texts attest its date as being at least from the beginning of 6th century. The burials (4th-6th century) discovered both inside and outside the church confirm its funeral function, which corresponds with the development of the martyr cult - believers wanted to be buried close to the saints, themselves buried at the heart of the edifice, usually in the chancel. Just like Saint Just, Saint Irénée was destroyed by the Protestants towards 1562. Restored then looted during the Revolution, it now presents 19th century architecture inspired by Byzantine churches. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The Soldiers' Church |
Esplanade des Invalides Paris 75007 http://www.invalides.org am.roger@voila.fr |
Built between 1679 and 1708, this religious building is commonly known as the "soldiers' church", in honour of the great military leaders who have been laid to rest here. Its crypt contains (among others) the remains of Rouget de Lisle (who composed the Marseillaise: the French national anthem), whilst hanging up in its nave are flags taken from enemies during the course of numerous battles. In 1837, the great classical composer Berlioz composed his Requiem here. Memorial services often take place in the church. The anniversary of the death of Napoleon Bonaparte, for example, is celebrated here each year on 5th May, while the anniversary of the church's consecration takes place in September. When at the Invalides, the église du Dôme and the Musée de l'Armée are well worth visiting too. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A rare example of a Romanesque church in Lyons |
1 Place Gerson Lyon 69005 +33 4 7828 3445 |
One of the oldest churches in Lyon (it appears in a 9th century text by Bishop Leidrade), the Romanesque architecture of Saint Paul matches the abbey church of Ainay (cf. Saint Martin d'Ainay). In the 19th century the revival of interest in medieval art prompted several neo-Gothic additions (spire, west portal), but the church thankfully keeps its Romanesque coherence. The octagonal tower at the transept crossing and the chapels near to the apse have also kept their arched openings decorated with small columns. The west steeple dates from the 15th century. The nave and the lower sides of the church have a surprising Romano-Gothic look. For the most part, the Romanesque walls were replaced in order to make more space and allow more light in - notably with the addition of rib vaults (a characteristic of what is called Gothic architecture). In the church of Saint Paul the Romanesque walls were kept but spiced up with Gothic innovations - this is the particular architectural feature of the church. The dome situated at the transept crossing is remarkable because it consists of two superimposed octagons. Services are held at 6:30p M-F and 10a & 11:30a Su. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Christian beginnings |
3, rue de l'Abbaye Marseilles 13007 +33 496 11 2260 |
Situated on the southern bank of the Vieux-Port above the dry dock, this abbey founded in the 5th century on the tomb of an ancient Christian martyr played an important role in Christianity's development in the Mediterranean between the 11th and 18th centuries. In the 14th century, Pope Urbain V (then installed in Avignon) oversaw its fortification.The abbey's crypt and catacombs, which contain a number of ancient sarcophagi, are open to visitors, whilst its excellent acoustics make it the perfect venue for the religious and classical music concerts held here on a regular basis. Large crowds attend its special ceremonies for la fête de la Chandeleur (Candlemas) in February.Admission: free; crypt visit around EUR 1.52 Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Nineteenth-century neo-gothic structure |
2, cours Franklin-Roosevelt Marseilles 13001 +33 491 48 5745 |
Located at the end of the Allée Léon-Gambetta and of the Canebière, Saint Vincent de Paul is often referred to as the Reform Church since its site formerly belonged to Reform Augustinian monks. Inspired by the thirteenth century Gothic with its imposing ogees, armed with Father Pougnet's designs, architect F. Reybaud oversaw the church's construction (1855-88).The décor was never completed. The church has since survived severe, slow degradation and continual restoration projects. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A medieval village beneath rugged cliffs |
St. Guilhem le Désert Montpellier |
After a lifetime dedicated to fighting the Arabs, the companion of Charlemagne and count of Toulouse, Aquitaine and Orange, Guillhaume Court Nez, decided to renounce the world and live out his last years as a hermit. The site of his death around 812 became a place of pilgrimage and it is in this place that one now finds the abbey and medieval village that bear his name. This isolated village nestling in its narrow valley remains a remarkably conserved historic site. The most notable building of the village is the abbey of Gellone whose doors open into the central square of the village opposite an ancient and beautiful plane tree. Most of the abbey dates from the 11th century although the cloisters and bell tower were added about 100 years later. Sacked by protestants during the 16th century, it later lost all its remaining relics to covetous clerics of surrounding towns. Located along the path of St Jean of Compostello, the abbey is currently maintained and used by a Carmelite community and is the site of occasional concerts as well as religious services. The village itself has managed to avoid the worst abuses that often characterise so frequented locations. It has maintained a sense of isolation and calm without being overrun by tourist shops. A path leads up to the ruined castle perched on the rocks overlooking the village and many other paths disappear among the cliffs and gorges that surround the village. These offer superb walking for all constitutions and degrees of commitment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Gothic church of St. Nizier |
Place St-Nizier Lyon 69001 +33 4 7241 1805 |
The church of Saint Nizier is one of the oldest in Lyon - writers of the Middle Ages described it as the funeral basilica where the ashes of the first Lyonnaise martyrs in 177 were kept. According to the famous 6th century writer Grégoire de Tours it was the tomb of his uncle Saint Nizier, the namesake of the church. What is certain is that the edifice founded under bishop Leidrade, close to Charlemagne, has diasappeared because it was replaced by the present construction in the 15th century. Saint Nizier is in reality a clever mixture of Gothic, Baroque and Neogothic architecture! The oldest parts like the majority of the façade and the interior area are in a Gothic style: the north steeple was constructed using the ideas of old Roman monuments, the nave is a perfect example of Gothic flamboyance (see Triforium and ribs of the vault). The columned apse of the entrance porch, added in 1579 by J. Vallet, adds a little touch of Renaissance. But overall it is the revival of interest in the Middle Ages that has been the inspiration for many modifications: A. Benoit constructed the south steeple using the design of the north steeple, but making it a little more geometric (1855-56) and the interior fittings were completely modified (furnishings, stain glass windows, organ, paintings, and statues). Services: Tuesday-Friday 12:10p and 7p; Saturday 12:10p and 6p; Sunday 10:30a. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cathedral |
Place St-Jean Lyon 69005 +33 4 7842 2825 http://cathedrale-lyon.cef.fr/ cathedrale@cathedrale-lyon.cef.fr |
The church of Lyon's bishop, one of Gaul's most important, has been situated on the banks of the Saone at the bottom of Fourvière hill since the 4th century (Saint Jean archeological garden). Construction of the present building started in 1170-1180 and the chancel and façade were finished in the 14th century: the cathedral is a testament to the evolution of Lyon's religious architecture. This historical church is host to many events, concerts and religious lectures throughout the year; call or check the Web site for details. Tours are also available. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Russian Edifice |
Avenue Nicolas-II Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 6000 +33 4 9396 8802 |
Built by Tsar Nicolas in 1912, this church is a work of art. Representative of the Russian presence in France it is a key tourist attraction today, with its gorgeous wood work and collection of icons. The interiors are ornamental and unique and are a definite must see. This exotic and colorful cathedral is home to many historical and religious objects that were transferred here when Russia was in the throes of civil turmoil. Come and visit or attend the church services held every Sunday. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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An incomplete church dedicated to a local saint |
4, rue Vallat Montpellier 34000 +33 467 52 7487 |
This church was reconstructed on the site of the church of St-Paul, destroyed in 1568 and then again in 1622, during the wars of religion. The current building is also the result of an unaccomplished 19th century plan to construct a much bigger church. Despite the completion of the initial works, the project was abandoned for financial reasons, leaving the squat, oddly proportioned neo-gothic church one sees today. Since the 17th century the church has been dedicated to the cult of Saint-Roch, 14th century son of a rich merchant family who abandoned his inheritance to become a pilgrim. Nursing and healing victims of the plague along the way, his path eventually led him to Rome. Returning from the holy city he fell victim to the plague himself but survived after fleeing into a forest, only to be later arrested as a spy and die after five years imprisonment. In 1629 the pope Urban VIII recognised his cult and his special protection against epidemics. A 19th century statue of the saint, accompanied by the dog which supplied him with food during his sickness, and other relics of the saint can be found within the church. An annual pilgrimage is celebrated each year at the church on the 16 August. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Three works by Delacroix |
129 Place Saint-Sulpice Paris 75006 +33 (0)8 9268 3000 (Centre De l'Information De touristes) |
This wonderful church, built between 1646 and 1766 boasts an impressive Italian-style façade adorned with two turrets and columns on two levels. Its entrance is flanked by two huge shells gifted by the Venetian Republic in the 16th century to François I (sculptor Jean-Baptiste Pigalle was responsible for their superb pedestals). The architect Visconti added its square and fountain in the 19th century. The interior, which measures 100 metres long, 50 metres wide and 30 metres high, is in the form of a Latin cross; in the chapel near the entrance are three famous paintings by Eugène Delacroix: La Lutte de Jacob avec l'ange (Jacob's fight with the angel), Héliodore chassé du temple (Heliodorus driven from the temple) et Saint Michel terrassant le démon (St Michael slaying the demon). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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