Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière sits high atop Fourvière, the steep hill on Lyon’s west side. It’s nicknamed the “upside down elephant.”
La Tour Metallique is the highest point
Fourvière Hill was where the Romans first settled and established a Roman forum and temple. In the 12th century, a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary was built on the hill.
In the 17th century, Fourvière Hill became a popular place of pilgrimage after Lyon was spared from a plague that swept Europe. Today, on September 8th, Lyon’s leaders make an annual pilgrimage to Fourvière to give thanks.
The chapel was renovated over the years, the last time in the 1850’s when the steeple was replaced by a tower topped with a gilded Virgin Mary. The basilica was constructed alongside the chapel in the late-1800’s. It is divided in two, with an ornate upper sanctuary and a simple lower section.
Upon entering the upper sanctuary, I didn’t know where to look first. The interior was overwhelming, with elaborate stained glass, intricate mosaics and abundant marble and gold.
Though there is a funicular, it’s a relatively easy climb.
Daily, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
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