Abbaye Saint-Victor
Nestled in the heart of Marseille, the Abbey of Saint-Victor stands like a beacon, illuminating not only religious history but also the exceptional architecture of the Phocaean city. By reading this article, you will not only discover one of the most beautiful churches in Marseille; you will be invited on a journey through time, where every stone, every legend, and every tradition will enrich your understanding of this historical and cultural gem. Prepare to be fascinated by the history and beauty of the Abbey of Saint-Victor, a treasure that beats at the heart of Marseille.
Discover the Abbey of Saint Victor on the heights of Marseille
In Marseille, the Abbey of Saint Victor is one of those must-see attractions that should not be missed under any circumstances if you are passing through the city. A monument that is both religious, cultural, and symbolic, the Abbey of St. Victor is unique and is a vestige of the History of Marseille. Indeed, listed as a historical monument in 1840, it is a treasure from the early Christian period and of Romanesque architecture. It ranks among the most beautiful churches in the city and is a privileged place for prayer in Marseille.
The Abbey of Saint Victor, a jewel of architecture
From the 5th century, the site was occupied by a chapel, which was transformed into a crypt in the Romanesque period in the 11th century. The building is fortified and contains early Christian sarcophagi in the crypt that can be visited. Nothing leaves one indifferent, whether it's the architecture or the legends, symbols, and beliefs associated with it.
From an architectural point of view, two styles are used. Romanesque art in the central nave with broken arches, while in the side aisles, transept, and choir, Gothic art is found. The view of the harbor from the site is absolutely magnificent and almost worth the visit on its own. Finally, "almost", how can one not be charmed by this place steeped in history. Many traditions and cultural activities are attached to St. Victor. Notably, the traditional Candlemas procession with the blessing of the navettes (biscuits) that one can buy at the nearby bakery.
Numerous cultural, artistic, or archaeological activities are organized, notably the internationally renowned Classical Music Festival of Saint Victor.
The navettes of Saint Victor and their history
Also nearby the Abbey is the oldest bakery in Marseille, which offers the famous "navettes" called "Le Four des Navettes." These pastries symbolize the arrival of Saint Lazarus and the two "Marys," Saint Mary Magdalene and Saint Martha, who disembarked at Les Saintes Maries de la Mer nearly two thousand years ago. From there, Christ's disciples set out to evangelize Massilia, then a Roman city.
In the crypt of Saint Victor, one can see the "cave of Saint Lazarus and Saint Mary Magdalene" and a seat carved into the rock where he preached. Mary Magdalene then withdrew to the arid mountain of Sainte Baume (baume meaning cave in Provençal). The cave of Mary Magdalene at Sainte Baume is also open for visits.
