Rue Nationale
69400 Villefranche-sur-Saône
The collegial Notre Dame des Marais was built on the swamps of the Morgon River (river crossing the city) where, it is said, shepherds discovered a statue of the Virgin.
This church, built between the 12th and 16th centuries, is one of the town's architectural jewels.
The church was built on what was once a marshland around which shepherds used to graze their oxen. One day, one of them discovered his cattle kneeling before a statue of the Virgin Mary. It was taken to the then parish church, La Madeleine, near the gateway to Anse, which no longer exists. But the statue was back in the marshes the next day, and the day after that.
News of the miracle spread around the town and the decision was taken to build a church.
Inside, the church has three naves. The central nave alone is supported by 14 pillars on which rest several richly carved rib vaults.
On either side of the nave, chapels were added to the aisles in the 16th century. They are home to some fine sculptures, in particular that of the Virgin Mary by Fabisch, the Lyon-born artist responsible for the Golden Virgin of Fourvière (Lyon).
Spoken languages
Adapted tourism
- Accessible en fauteuil roulant en autonomie
Opening hours
All year round, 9am to 6pm.Open visit and guided tour.
