Marseille, France: Basilica of Our Lady of the Guard (Notre Dame de la Garde)
About the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde in Marseille:
Traveling to Notre Dame de la Garde in Marseille:
The Basilica towers over the city in Marseille’s 6th Arrondissement, so it is impossible to miss it. Naturally, it is quite a hike up to the top, so those who wish can catch the little tourist train that shuttles passengers between the Old Port and the mountain top.
Address: Notre Dame de la Garde Rue Fort du Sanctuaire 13281 Marseille
GPS coordinates: 43° 17′ 3.5376” N, 5° 22′ 21.7920” E
Tel: +33 (0)4 91 13 40 80
Click here for the official website of Notre Dame de la Garde.
About the Abbey of Saint Victor:
You will find the tomb of Saint John Cassian (c. 360 – 435) here in Marseille at the Abbey of Saint Victor. Sometimes called John Cassian the Roman, he originally was educated in the middle East, later went to Rome and finally ended up in Marseille, where he founded the Abbey. His Feast Day is July 23rd. He was never formally canonized a Saint, since that process had not yet been formalized at the time of his death, but he is still considered a Saint.
Saint Cassian’s relics can be found in the underground chapel, but his head and right hand are in the main church. Guided visits are available on certain days, and for self-guided tours you can download an app on your smartphone.
Traveling to the Abbey of Saint Victor in Marseille:
Marseille has a major airport, and is also a port of call on several cruise lines. It is served by rail from many cities in France. For train schedules and fares click here.
Address: Abbaye Saint-Victor, Place Saint-Victor, 13007 Marseille
GPS coordinates: 43° 17′ 24.2196” N, 5° 21′ 55.0908” E
Tel: +33 04 96 11 22 60
Click here for the official website of the Abbey of Saint Victor (Basilique St-Victor) in Marseille.