Église Saint-Laurent: A Seafarer's Sanctuary
Discover Marseille's maritime soul at Église Saint-Laurent, a historic Romanesque church overlooking the Old Port, steeped in centuries of faith and resilience.
Église Saint-Laurent, nestled on the Esplanade de la Tourette in Marseille's 2nd arrondissement, offers a serene escape with historical depth. Overlooking the Old Port, this Romanesque-Provençal church has been a parish for fishermen since the 13th century. Built with pink limestone, its simple yet striking architecture provides a contrast to the bustling city. Explore its unadorned interior, reflecting the Cistercian style, and discover the enduring spirit of Marseille's maritime community. Easily accessible and close to landmarks like Fort Saint-Jean and MuCEM, Église Saint-Laurent provides a unique glimpse into the city's religious heritage and offers stunning views of the harbor. It's a must-visit for those seeking tranquility and a connection to Marseille's rich past.
A brief summary to Eglise Saint Laurent
- 16 Esp. de la Tourette, Marseille, 13002, FR
- +33491900182
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and to avoid crowds.
- Check the local schedule for religious services or events to experience the church's cultural significance.
- Explore the charming cafes and local shops in the surrounding area.
- Dress modestly as it is an active religious site.
- Don't miss the stunning views of the Old Port from the church's vicinity.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Vieux Port (Old Port), walk north towards Fort Saint-Jean. Église Saint-Laurent is located on the Esplanade de la Tourette, just a short walk past the fort. Follow the signs for MuCEM; the church is adjacent to the museum. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and offers scenic views of the harbor.
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Public Transport
Take bus lines 49, 60, 82, 82S, or 83 and get off at the 'Caisserie Beauregard' bus stop, which is a short walk from the church. Alternatively, take the Metro Line 1 to Vieux Port station, then walk for about 10 minutes towards the church. A single journey ticket costs approximately €1.70.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from the city center (e.g., Vieux Port) to Église Saint-Laurent will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic. The journey takes about 5-10 minutes.
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Driving
If driving, head towards the A55 motorway and follow signs for 'La Joliette' and 'Vieux Port'. Take exit 1 for 'Marseille-Centre'. Continue on Rue de la République, then turn left onto Rue de l'Evêché. Follow this road which becomes Esp. de la Tourette. Parking is available nearby, but it may incur a fee of around €2-3 per hour.
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Ferry
From the Vieux Port, take the free ferry shuttle across the harbor. Upon disembarking, walk towards Fort Saint-Jean and then follow the signs to Église Saint-Laurent. This offers a scenic and cost-effective way to reach the church.
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