Dominating Marseille’s skyline is the 19^th century Romano-Byzantine basilica, an opulent Catholic church that sits at the city’s highest natural elevation spot on the south side of the Old Port. The church, whose name means ‘Our Lady of the Guard’ was built on the ruins of an ancient fort and offers spectacular 360 degree views of the area from the highest point of Marseille, known as La Garde. Notre-Dame de la Garde was designed by the architect Henri-Jacques Esperandieu and consecrated in 1864, 11 years after ground was broken. Over the years, restoration projects have been undertaken, most recently in 2008.

The basilica consists of a lower, Romanesque-style church that is carved from the rock, while the higher, Neo-Byzantine style church is covered with beautiful mosaics.  A 40 ft belfry sits atop the 135 ft bell tower, while a majestic copper and gold leaf statue of Madonna and Child completes the exterior of this famous building. Highlights of the Basilique Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde include illuminated bay windows in the upper church, which is also decorated with multicolored mosaics and marble, as well as the more sober crypt and the exotic nave covered with intricately decorated mosaic.

A visit to the basilica begins with the most stunning view of all Marseille, and it is easy to point out the Velodrome, the Old Port, the Frioul Isles and even Cap Croisette from the top.  City busses and a tourist train make the steep ride to the top possible. The beauty of the architecture, both inside and out makes this a must-do when visiting the city.