Built in the late 1800’s, this basilica is very new by European standards. It stands on top of Fourvière hill, on the site that once occupied the Roman forum of Trajan, and commands a spectacular view over Lyon. The basilica has acquired the local nickname of “the upside-down elephant”, because the building looks like the body of an elephant and the four towers look like its legs (we kinda saw it when we crunched up our eyes … a lot).
Here are a few pics from our visit to the basilica … enjoy!
Here is the view from halfway up the gardens, on route to the basilica.
AJ walking through the rose garden with the basilica in the background.
The golden statue atop the tower on the right is a depiction of the Virgin Mary. She’s credited with saving the city multiple times from plagues and invasions.
The statue on top of the tower is a depiction of Saint George slaying his dragon …
The main sanctuary inside the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière …
This photo was taken down in the crypt, which was built under the main sanctuary. Basically a church on top of a church …
Here is the view from outside the basilica looking over Lyon. Supposedly you can see Mont Blanc, the highest point in Europe, on a clear day.
