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Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere, Lyon

4.7
#1 of 4,554 in Things to do in Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes
Must see · World heritage site · Architectural Building · Church
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Emperor Trajan once tread the ground of the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere, now it's your turn. The basilica rests on top of the site of Trajan’s Roman forum; in fact, the French still refer to the site at Vieux-Forum (Old Forum). It wasn’t only Trajan who recognized the import of this location. Several French historical figures also made pilgrimages to the hill. Today, the basilica built on the site offers you a panoramic view of the city from its north tower. Private funds went to build this impressive structure in 1872 as a grand thank you to the Virgin Mary for saving Lyon from a cholera epidemic in 1823. With the Gothic detail of its edifice, the vaulted arches gracing the nave, and the colored light refracting from the stained glass, it may be one of the world’s grandest thank-you cards. Work out when and for how long to visit Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere and other Lyon attractions using our handy Lyon road trip site.
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Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
11,658 reviews
Google
4.7
TripAdvisor
  • It is a beautiful church. I was very emotional there. It’s calm. Silence! It was so nice! My friend’s recommended to me to go there and definitely was one of the top moments of this trip. Do not... 
    It is a beautiful church. I was very emotional there. It’s calm. Silence! It was so nice! My friend’s recommended to me to go there and definitely was one of the top moments of this trip. Do not...  more »
  • This cathedral is gorgeous inside and out plus there are great views of the city of Lyon. For some reason, we decided to just walk up (because we also went to the Roman ruins)..and it was pretty... 
    This cathedral is gorgeous inside and out plus there are great views of the city of Lyon. For some reason, we decided to just walk up (because we also went to the Roman ruins)..and it was pretty...  more »
Google
  • The church is located up the hill of Lyon city, the view is spectacular. You can see almost all the building in Lyon. Also the church and art are beautiful both in and out. It is not crowded by the time I visited. It is easy to get here by train. Recommended to come as it must be the bucket-list for Lyon city!
  • I think it is the most beautiful place of worship in Lyon and I think it is difficult to say otherwise. It is definitely a place that amazes externally and internally indeed and it can be seen from literally every corner of the city center of Lyon! It can be reached by funicular and from the hill you can enjoy a splendid view! Admission is free and it is possible to take photos.

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