Basilique Notre-Dame d'Arcachon — Attraction in Arcachon

The fabulous mother church of Arcachon, whose foundation stone was laid in 1856, encroached on part of the sailors' chapel. The first services were held there in 1861 while it was still under construction. Its Gothic style features lancet arches. Still too small for a growing population, the church was enlarged in 1883 by moving the apse back 14.5 meters, which allowed for the construction of the transept. This sanctuary witnessed two major events: the Coronation of the Virgin in 1870 and its elevation to the status of minor basilica in 1953. The fresco in the choir depicts the coronation ceremony and represents the people present. The stained-glass windows recapitulate the history of the basilica. Following the Second Vatican Council, it was decided to build the current altar, facing the people at the crossing of the transept, and to fill the empty space of the choir with a baptistery.

Thus, each generation leaves its mark, and the current wrought iron furnishings, of modern design, symbolize the world of the sea through the design of the sails depicted there.

The basilica is the mother church of Arcachon, and services are regularly held there. During the summer, it fills with a population of vacationers and holidaymakers, like the five other churches and chapels, in addition to the regular parishioners. It serves as a venue for life's events, such as baptisms, weddings, and funerals. It also hosts concerts throughout the year; the organ is of fine craftsmanship, and Charles Gounod is said to have composed several of his...

It’s a really nice basilica. The history of the establishment of the church which became the basilica is interesting to the towns history. It is also very pretty inside with unsurprisingly an ode to the seafaring history of the area.

Please note this is not the same as the Norte...

Excellent place to visit, consider, read, learn and respect other people's lives and commitment to what they believe in. Light a candle for all humanity if you don't have a loved one who has passed on. Wonderful feeling of calm, sanctuary...