Background

Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins: A Sanctuary by the Old Port

Discover Marseille's Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins, a historic church on the Vieux Port blending Gothic and Baroque styles, witnessing centuries of Marseille's rich past.

4.4

Located on the Quai des Belges, overlooking the bustling Vieux Port of Marseille, the Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins is a captivating blend of Gothic and Baroque architecture with a rich history dating back to the 15th century. Originally a Templar commandery, it was later entrusted to the Augustinian hermits who began constructing the church in 1447. It has witnessed pivotal moments in history, including the marriage of Catherine de Medici to Henry II of France in 1533. Saved from destruction during the French Revolution, it stands today as a testament to Marseille's enduring spirit, offering visitors a serene escape amidst the vibrant port atmosphere. Explore its stunning interior, admire the intricate details of its chapels, and discover the stories woven into its very stones, making it a must-see landmark for any visitor to Marseille.

A brief summary to Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins

Local tips

  • Check the church's website for mass schedules and special events, as times may vary.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting, as it is an active place of worship.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll around the Vieux Port and explore nearby attractions like the Musée d'Histoire de Marseille.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the church's history and architectural details.
  • Visit during the week to avoid the larger crowds that gather on weekends.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) on the Quai du Port, walk east along the Quai des Belges. The Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins will be on your right, a short 5-minute walk. It's easily recognizable by its white neo-Baroque facade.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Metro Line 1 to Vieux-Port station. Exit the station and walk straight ahead towards the Quai des Belges. The church is located a few steps away on your right. A single metro ticket costs €1.70.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Marseille Saint-Charles train station to the Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins will take approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €15-€20. Note that traffic can be heavy around the Vieux Port, especially during peak hours.

  • Driving

    Driving directly to the church is not recommended due to limited parking. The closest parking options are Parking Indigo Bourse-Musée d'Histoire (1 Rue Reine Elisabeth) and Parking Indigo Charles de Gaulle (22 Place Général de Gaulle). Parking fees typically range from €2.50 to €4 per hour.

Unlock the Best of Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins

The Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins, also known as the Church of the Augustinians, stands proudly on the Quai des Belges, a stone's throw from the heart of Marseille's historic Vieux Port. Its story is deeply intertwined with the city's past, reflecting centuries of religious devotion, architectural evolution, and historical significance. The site's origins predate the church itself, once serving as a commandery for the Knights Templar in the 12th century. Following the dissolution of the Templar order, the land was acquired by the Augustinian hermits in 1369. These hermits, seeking a place of worship and community, embarked on an ambitious project: the construction of a new Gothic church. Construction began in 1447 and continued for over a century. The church was finally consecrated in 1542, although the vaulting was not completed until 1588. This lengthy construction period reflects the challenges of building on the unstable, alluvial soil near the port. Despite these difficulties, the Augustinians persevered, creating a lasting monument to their faith. Throughout the Ancien Régime, the Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins played a vital role in the religious and social life of Marseille. It became a favored venue for professional ceremonies, with various guilds and confraternities establishing their own altars within its walls. Ship-porters, for example, maintained altars dedicated to Saint Peter and Saint Paul as early as 1390, highlighting the church's close ties to the city's maritime community. One of the most significant events in the church's history occurred on October 28, 1533, when Pope Clement VII officiated the marriage of his niece, Catherine de Medici, to Henry II of France. This royal wedding brought prestige and attention to the Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins, solidifying its place in the annals of French history. The French Revolution posed a grave threat to the church's existence. In 1791, the municipal council proposed its demolition, citing its valuable location near the port as a prime opportunity for financial gain. However, the church was spared destruction when it was designated as a parish church under the name of Saint Augustine. It was later used as a warehouse, which further protected it from demolition. In 1803, following the signing of the Concordat, the church was re-established as a parish and renamed Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins, in honor of Saint Ferréol, a former bishop of Marseille. The 19th century brought further changes to the church's structure. The façade was destroyed in 1801 due to street construction and rebuilt in 1875 in a neo-Baroque style, giving the church its current distinctive appearance. Today, the Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins stands as a captivating architectural landmark. Its white neo-Baroque façade provides a striking contrast to the surrounding buildings of the Vieux Port. Inside, the church boasts a spacious nave with Gothic-style ribbed vaulting. Notable features include the polychrome marble high altar, the intricately carved pulpit, and three paintings by the 17th-century artist Michel Serre. Visitors can admire the bust of Saint Ferréol, a reliquary dating back to the 18th century, as well as sculptures by Raymond Servian, Élie-Jean Vézien, and Louis Botinelly. The church also houses a neo-Gothic pipe organ, designed by Augustin Zieger in 1844, which enhances the spiritual atmosphere of the space. The Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins continues to serve as a place of worship and a center for religious activities. It also welcomes visitors from around the world who come to admire its architecture, learn about its history, and experience its serene ambiance. The church is open to the public daily, with specific hours for masses and guided tours. A visit to the Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and connect with Marseille's rich cultural heritage. Whether you are drawn to its architectural beauty, its historical significance, or its spiritual atmosphere, this remarkable church is sure to leave a lasting impression. Exploring the church's surroundings further enriches the experience. The Vieux Port, with its bustling atmosphere, offers a glimpse into Marseille's maritime past and present. Nearby, visitors can explore the historic Le Panier district, wander along the Canebière, or take a ferry to the Château d'If or the Frioul Islands. The Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins is more than just a building; it is a living testament to Marseille's enduring spirit, a place where history, art, and faith converge to create a truly unforgettable experience. Its story is one of resilience, adaptation, and unwavering devotion, making it an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand the heart and soul of this vibrant city.

Popular Experiences near Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins

Popular Hotels near Église Saint-Ferréol les Augustins

Select Currency