Cathédrale Basilique Sainte-Marie-Majeure, dit « La Major »
Attraction
4.6 (13576 reviews)
Huge 1800s neo-Byzantine cathedral featuring an opulent interior lined with murals, mosaic & marble.
Place Albert Londres, 13002 Marseille, France
Did You Know?
Basilica Construction
The Basilica Notre-Dame de la Garde, also known as 'La Bonne Mère,' was built in the 19th century and is a prominent landmark in Marseille.
Electrolysis Solution
The statue of the Virgin Mary atop the basilica required 90,000 liters of copper sulfate solution for its electroplating process.
Gutta-Percha Mold
The mold used for the Virgin Mary statue was made of reinforced gutta-percha and weighed a massive 1,500 kilograms.
Gold Leaf
The statue's gold leaf coating requires 500 grams of gold and has been redone several times throughout its history.
Highlights from Reviews
• Stunning Architecture
The cathedral features a unique Neo-Byzantine style with striped stone, grand domes, intricate mosaics, and impressive scale.
• Free Admission
Entry to the cathedral is completely free, making it an accessible and generous experience for all visitors.
• Scenic Location
Situated right by the port, it offers beautiful views of the sea, harbor, and surrounding cityscape.
• Peaceful Ambiance
Visitors consistently describe the interior as quiet, calming, serene, and conducive to reflection and awe.
• Engaging Exhibitions
The cathedral frequently hosts art displays and exhibitions, adding a contemporary cultural layer to the historical site.
Featured in
Unforgettable Marseille Attractions And Activities
Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde, Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean, Old Port of Marseille