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Church · Tours, Centro-Vale do Loire
Basilique Saint-Martin de Tours
Neo-Byzantine basilica from the late 19th century, built over the tomb of São Martinho de Tours, one of France's most popular saints.
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 Basilique Saint-Martin de Tours
São Martinho de Tours, bishop of the city in the 4th century, was one of the most venerated saints of medieval Europe, and Tours became a pilgrimage destination. The large collegiate church that housed the tomb was plundered during the French Revolution and demolished in 1797 after its vaults collapsed.
The present, smaller basilica was built between 1886 and 1902 in a Neo-Byzantine style by architect Victor Laloux, who also designed Tours' train station. A bronze statue of the saint crowns the dome.
The crypt contains the tomb of São Martinho, still visited by pilgrims. From the old collegiate church two towers remain, the Tour Charlemagne and the Tour de l'Horloge, just a few steps from the basilica in Vieux Tours.
The Saint-Martin quarter developed around the cult of the saint and, from the 5th century on, was the new and lively part of the city.
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
About 30 minutes, including the crypt and the towers of the former collegiate church.
Best time
At any time outside Masses. Pairs well with a walk through Vieux Tours and Place Plumereau.
How to get there
On foot, about 5 minutes from Place Plumereau and 15 minutes from Gare de Tours.
Tip
After visiting the basilica, look for the Tour Charlemagne and Tour de l'Horloge on the surrounding streets: they give an idea of the scale of the medieval collegiate church.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Basilique Saint-Martin de Tours
Who was Saint Martin of Tours?
Bishop of Tours in the 4th century, one of the most popular saints of medieval Europe. His tomb, in the basilica's crypt, attracted pilgrims from across the continent.
Is the basilica old?
The current building dates from the late 19th century. Of the medieval collegiate church only two towers remain, the Tour Charlemagne and the Tour de l'Horloge.
How much time should you allow?
About half an hour, including the crypt and a quick visit to the towers.