The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Marseille stands on Avenue du Prado in the 8th arrondissement. It commemorates the 1720 plague and World War I. Built in Romano-Byzantine style, the basilica’s construction began in the early 20th century. The church was consecrated on May 5, 1947, by Cardinal Roques, Archbishop of Rennes. Pope John Paul II later declared it a minor basilica on September 17, 1997.
Designed with Romanesque and Byzantine elements, the basilica features a blend of historical architectural styles. The structure’s exterior impresses with its grand scale, while the interior captivates visitors with stunning artwork and religious symbols.
The church holds deep significance for the people of Marseille. It serves as a memorial to the sacrifices made during wartime and the devastation of the plague. Locals and pilgrims visit regularly, finding both solace and spiritual connection.
Today, the basilica continues to attract worshippers and tourists. Its rich history and beauty make it an important site in Marseille, where faith and resilience are deeply intertwined.
To reach the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Marseille, here are your options for air, rail, and bus travel:
By Air:
Marseille Provence Airport (MRS): The closest airport to the basilica, located about 27 km away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or use public transport. A taxi ride takes around 30 minutes.
Toulon-Hyères Airport (TLN): About 70 km from Marseille, this regional airport offers limited flights. You can take a train or rent a car for the 1-hour journey to the basilica.
By Rail:
Marseille Saint-Charles Train Station: A major railway hub in Marseille, accessible by TGV from Paris (around 3 hours). From the station, the basilica is a short taxi ride (approximately 15 minutes), or you can take the metro Line 1 to the "La Timone" station, then transfer to a local bus.
By Bus:
Long-Distance Buses: Services like FlixBus and BlaBlaBus connect Marseille to major cities across France. The main bus station, Gare Routière, is about 10 minutes from the basilica by taxi.
Local Buses: Bus lines 19, 32, and 82 stop near the basilica, providing direct access from other parts of Marseille.
By Car:
If you are driving, the basilica is located on Avenue du Prado in the 8th arrondissement. It's easy to reach by car, and parking is available nearby. From the city center, the drive takes about 15 minutes.
For a seamless journey, consider flying into Marseille Provence Airport and then taking a taxi or public transport for a short trip to the basilica.
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Mass Schedule
Monday at 7:00 am., 8:30 am., 7:00 pm. Tuesday at 7:00 am., 8:30 am., 7:00 pm. Wednesday at 7:00 am., 8:30 am., 7:00 pm. Thursday at 7:00 am., 8:30 am., 7:00 pm. Friday at 7:00 am., 8:30 am., 7:00 pm. Saturday at 7:00 pm. Sunday at 8:00 am., 9:30 am., 11:00 am., 7:00 pm.
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Open hours today: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm, 3:00 pm - 7:45 pmToggle weekly schedule
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