Faith | Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Perched atop Fourvière Hill in Lyon, France, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is an iconic religious landmark. Construction began in 1872, with interior decorations completed in 1964. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 ⛪️ ✨ The History of Fourvière Hill In 177 AD, Lyon became one of the first cities in France where Catholic martyrs died for their faith. To this day, the basilica on Fourvière Hill remains a major pilgrimage site for Catholics in Lyon and across France. Pilgrims visit to give thanks for blessings received, pray for needs, and (emulate) Mary, who obeyed God’s will and became a partner in His plan of salvation. Here, people honor Mary—not worship her, for she is not divine, but a human model who followed God’s word. Through Mary, believers draw closer to Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, whose suffering, death, and resurrection on the cross reveal God’s boundless love for humanity ❤️ In 1643, Lyon’s magistrate vowed to pilgrimage to Fourvière Hill to halt a plague. When the plague subsided, Fourvière gained fame. Each year on September 8th, a grand ceremony commemorates this "miracle" and expresses gratitude to Mary 🙏 ✨ Fête des Illuminations (Festival of Lights) On December 8, 1852 (the Feast of the Immaculate Conception), a gilded statue of Mary was installed on the chapel tower. A planned procession was canceled due to heavy rain, but that night, residents spontaneously lit candles in their windows to thank Mary. This marked the origin of Lyon’s famous Festival of Lights ✨ Today, the city glows with millions of lights each December, a magical tribute to this tradition. ✨ Basilica Architecture Construction of the basilica began in 1872, led by architect Pierre Bossan, to thank Mary for protecting Lyon during the Franco-Prussian War. Completed in 1890, it blends diverse architectural styles. The exterior symbolizes the strength of faith, while the gilded interior—like a "golden sanctuary"—represents God’s glory shining through those who, like Mary, welcome Him into their lives 🌟 As Lyon’s highest point, the basilica offers a stunning viewpoint. Highly recommend visiting at sunrise or sunset: golden light bathes the basilica, making it feel even more (sacred) as you overlook the city below 🌇 #France #Lyon #WorldHeritage #Catholicism #ReligiousHistory #FestivalOfLights