Saint-Michel Basilica

Menton, France

Saint-Michel Basilica is a Baroque jewel with its incredible exterior, the bell-tower, the coloured cobbles of the parvis arranged to form the Grimaldi’s coat of arms and the “rampes Saint-Michel” (a series of flights of stairs).

The construction of the Basilica begun in 1640 under the reign of Honoré II, but took several centuries to be completed. The façade was then renovated in the 19th Century adding typical decor of the period such as smooth columns with ionic and corinthian capitals.

References:

Comments

Your name



Details

Founded: 1640
Category: Religious sites in France

More Information

www.tourisme-menton.fr

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Harry Yanakiev (7 months ago)
The Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel was built according to the wishes of Prince Honoré II of Monaco. He wanted a "big and beautiful church to Menton" and made this wish by the Genoese architect Laurent Lavagna. Construction began May 27, 1619, but the real work only began in 1639. In 1653 the monument was officially over and under the cult of Saint Michael the Archangel. It is May 8, 1675
Ellen Brigitta (8 months ago)
The way leads to the Basilique is narrow and unique. And when you arrived, you will see a breathtaking view of the ocean. It's a very nice complex and peaceful too. Nice place to visit
Anna Y (9 months ago)
So beautiful! Unfortunately it was closed when we visited, but the outside architecture and the views of the bay are absolutely stunning!
CR Foo (9 months ago)
A short climb up the stairs will lead you to this Cathedral. While climbing up the stairs, this presents opportunities for you to capture the beach and the sea line of Menton. The orange architecture and the orange walls are also rather scenic and worth a picture. Quite a number of tourists at this scenic point.
Mackenzie Johnson (12 months ago)
Beautiful church with a fantastic facade from up close and afar. Highly recommend walking out to one of the rock points for the view.
Powered by Google

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Historic Site of the week

Château de Foix

The Château de Foix dominates the town of Foix. An important tourist site, it is known as a centre of the Cathars. Built on an older 7th-century fortification, the castle is known from 987. In 1002, it was mentioned in the will of Roger I, Count of Carcassonne, who bequeathed the fortress to his youngest child, Bernard. In effect, the family ruling over the region were installed here which allowed them to control access to the upper Ariège valley and to keep surveillance from this strategic point over the lower land, protected behind impregnable walls.

In 1034, the castle became capital of the County of Foix and played a decisive role in medieval military history. During the two following centuries, the castle was home to Counts with shining personalities who became the soul of the Occitan resistance during the crusade against the Albigensians.