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Abbey · Marselha, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Abbaye Saint-Victor
One of the oldest churches in France, with the appearance of a fortress, near the Vieux-Port. The crypts hold sarcophagi from the 4th and 5th centuries and the Black Virgin, venerated in the Candlemas procession on February 2.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Abbaye Saint-Victor
According to tradition, the abbey was founded in the 5th century by João Cassiano, near the tombs of Marseille martyrs, among them São Victor, who was killed around 303. By about the year 1000 the abbey held great influence across Provence. One of its abbots, Guillaume de Grimoard, became Pope Urban V in 1362.
The monastery was dismantled during the French Revolution, but the church remains in use. From the outside, with towers and thick walls, it looks more like a fortress than a church.
The highlight is the crypts, the oldest parts of the building, with a collection of late-4th- and early-5th-century paleochristian sarcophagi. The Black Virgin is also there, carried in procession every February 2 for Candlemas, when the city's bakeries sell navettes, orange-blossom biscuits shaped like boats.
The abbey is on Quai de Rive Neuve, a few minutes from the Vieux-Port, on the way to Notre-Dame de la Garde. Entry to the church is free; the crypt is ticketed.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half an hour to an hour, including the crypt.
Best time
During the day, outside mass times. On February 2 the Candlemas procession takes place and draws large crowds. Check the schedule before you go.
How to get there
On foot, about 10 minutes from the Vieux-Port via Quai de Rive Neuve. Buses that go up to Notre-Dame de la Garde pass nearby.
Tip
Combine it with the climb to Notre-Dame de la Garde. Right in front of the abbey there is a traditional bakery selling navettes, the orange-blossom biscuits typical of Marselha.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Abbaye Saint-Victor
What to see at the Abbaye Saint-Victor?
Mainly the crypts, with sarcophagi from the 4th and 5th centuries and the Black Madonna.
Is there an entrance fee?
The church is free to enter; the crypt has a paid entrance. Check before you go.
What are navettes?
Boat-shaped biscuits flavored with orange blossom, associated with the Feast of the Candelaria on February 2.