View over the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica

Marseille’s Old Port also offers a breathtaking view of the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica. This iconic landmark, nicknamed “the Good Mother” by the locals, stands tall on a hill, watching over the city at a whopping 157 meters high. Built in the 19th century, the basilica is a stunning example of Romanesque-Byzantine architecture. But the real showstopper is the golden statue of the Virgin Mary on the very top. She gazes out at the city and the sea, watching over the sailors and the people of Marseille. She holds her child in her arms, presenting him to the world from the top of the bell tower. Inside the basilica, there is a stunning collection of mosaics covering no less than 1,200 m², as well as many ex-votos of ships: each of them is for a sailor that has come back safe and sound from their sea adventures. Over the years, this church has welcomed thousands of pilgrims who’ve come to ask for Virgin Mary’s protection. There’s even a special book where the faithful write down their most secret wishes, hoping they’ll be granted with a little help from the Good Mother.