Basilica of Our Lady of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland

The Basilica Notre-Dame of Geneva is the main Roman Catholic church in Geneva. The church was built according to the design of Alexandre Grigny between 1852 and 1857 on the site of a former stronghold fortifications. This neo-Gothic building, whose appearance is partly inspired by the Beauvais Cathedral, could break ground thanks to the city of Geneva, which had ceded land to religious communities to build places of worship, and through donations and manual labor provided by the Geneva Catholics.

After the coming to power of an anti-clerical government, Notre Dame was occupied on June 5, 1875 and closed. This occupation is accompanied by a protest against the Roman Catholic and more unrests. The commitment of Catholics to this sanctuary becomes even greater. Notre-Dame was bought by the Catholic Church in 1911–1912.

On December 5, 1954, Bishop François Charrière, diocesan bishop, pronounced in the name of Pope Pius XII the elevation of the shrine to the rank of minor basilica.

The oldest art works of the basilica date back to the time immediately preceding the Protestant Reformation like a carved wood panel with bas-relief image of the Virgin Mary, mutilated with an ax by Protestants.

The stained glass windows of the basilica are particularly remarkable. Some are semi-industrial production neo-gothic, but most show the evolution of the art of stained glass during the twentieth century, in various styles, after those of Claudius Lavergne (installed from 1857 to 1875).

References:

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Religious sites in Switzerland

User Reviews

Randy (4 months ago)
Simply beautiful. If you find yourself in the area, you should definately see this. Take the tour and walk the stairs to the top to truly understand.

Jonathan Nassar (5 months ago)
A beautiful church from the 1800s. There aren't a lot of Catholic churches in Geneva, and the history behind this one is interesting. I came here for masses in French and English - both were very nice.

Maria Gr (9 months ago)
Very beautiful Basilica. Must visit in Geneva.

Mark Schatzman (10 months ago)
Serene holy place in the bustle of downtown. The woman who is a member (wearing a name tag) opened the case of rosaries so my daughter could buy one. Then she explained more about the cathedral. Wonderful experience.

Ihsan Sakar (14 months ago)
Basilique Notre-Dame is an important Catholic church in Geneva, Switzerland. Built between 1852 and 1857, it serves as the main Catholic church of Geneva and is designed in neo-gothic style. Notable for its architecture, this basilica is also a major attraction for local and foreign tourists. Here are some features of the basilica: 1. **Historical and Architectural Features**: The Basilique Notre-Dame is a fine example of the neo-gothic architectural style. Its construction was a result of the growth of the Catholic community in Geneva at the time and the need for a new place of worship. 2. **Art and Interior Decoration**: The interior features stunning stained glass windows, detailed carvings and an ornate altar. These works of art and decorations give the church a spiritual and aesthetic atmosphere. 3. **Location and Access**: The basilica is located in the center of Geneva, very close to the Cornavin train station. This central location makes the church easily accessible. 4. **Community and Events**: Basilique Notre-Dame is an important center of the Catholic community in Geneva and organizes various religious events and masses. The church also hosts concerts and other cultural events. The Basilique Notre-Dame is an important contribution to the historical and cultural fabric of Geneva, offering a peaceful place for worshippers and visitors alike.

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Visby Cathedral

Visby Cathedral (also known as St. Mary’s Church) is the only survived medieval church in Visby. It was originally built for German merchants and inaugurated in 1225. Around the year 1350 the church was enlarged and converted into a basilica. The two-storey magazine was also added then above the nave as a warehouse for merchants.

Following the Reformation, the church was transformed into a parish church for the town of Visby. All other churches were abandoned. Shortly after the Reformation, in 1572, Gotland was made into its own Diocese, and the church designated its cathedral.

There is not much left of the original interior. The font is made of local red marble in the 13th century. The pulpit was made in Lübeck in 1684. There are 400 graves under the church floor.

Basilica of Our Lady of Geneva

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