The Notre Dame Lyon France

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The Notre Dame Lyon France Basilica is the most iconic building in the city and one of the most notable of all the Catholic churches in France, and one of the top things to do in Lyon. The Basilique of Notre Dame de Fourviere was constructed between the years of 1872 and 1896 through contributions of private funds from supporters of the Catholic Church. At the time it was built, it was meant to serve as a statement of the power of the church against various other factions in the city. It is situated atop Fourviere Hill, and is the main reason why this hill is referred to as the “hill that prays” in Lyon.

The architecture of the Fourviere Basilica is decidedly Romanesque and Byzantine in style, much like the Sacre Coeur in Paris. The interior is much more ornate as compared to the austere look of the exterior. The interior is highlighted with beautiful mosaics, amazing stained glass, and a variety of statuary, as well as the crypt of Saint Joseph. There is also a Museum of Sacred Art inside the Basilica in Lyon, which on an annual basis received over 1.5 million visitors. The architect Pierre Bossan, who seems to have been conceiving of the idea as far back as 1846 when he began to make sketches, designed the basilica.

Notre Dame Lyon France is positioned over top of what was once the forum of Trajan during the time of the Holy Roman Empire. It sits triumphantly atop the Fourviere Hill and can be seen from many different areas around the city. This has lent to the fact that it has become a symbol of Lyon in many ways. The four towers and one bell tower of the church rise high up into the sky and provide for wonderful postcards and photographs from many different vantage points. Visitors may climb the north tower from time to time to get a gorgeous 180-degree view of the city and the surrounding areas. When you visit the Basilique of Notre Dame de Fourviere, you will want to be sure to visit both chapels. The sanctuary on the second floor is extremely ornate while the lower sanctuary is much more simple. Both are filled with items of interest and are well worth walking through. The Fourviere Basilica is an amazing attraction that you can enjoy for barely any money. A walk through the Museum of Sacred Art alone is well worth the price of admission.