Notre-Dame de Bonsecours Chapel

As you can read on the signs hanging from the low wall on the left, the Notre-Dame de Bonsecours chapel is not far away. Though you can spot its outline from the Henri IV quay and the Hâble quay, it’s highly recommended that you make the trip up to the chapel for a closer look and to take advantage of the exceptional view from the top of the cliff. Follow the Chemin de la Bastille, then the narrow path to the left of Samuel de Champlain Street. Since 1876, the Notre-Dame de Bonsecours chapel has dominated the surrounding area, overlooking the Pollet district. Initially designed as a place of pilgrimage, it was eventually dedicated to the memory of Dieppe sailors who died at sea, at the beginning of the 20th century. On the lower part of the interior walls you can see commemorative plaques of several families mourning the loss of a father, husband, or brother, who never returned from sea. On either side of the Marian statue of the crowned Virgin, you will also see a group of ex-voto offerings in the form of miniature boats. These kinds of offerings were left by sailors, before or after sailing, to ensure the Virgin Mary’s protection or, on the contrary, to thank her for her protection. Despite its interesting blend of Romanesque, Byzantine and Oriental architecture, the Notre-Dame de Bonsecours chapel has a very sober appearance. Its simplicity and minimalism makes the visit even more special.