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Notre-Dame des Tables Church: A Historical and Spiritual Landmark

Discover Montpellier's Notre-Dame des Tables Church: a blend of Baroque architecture, religious history, and spiritual serenity in the city center.

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Located in the heart of Montpellier, Notre-Dame des Tables Church is a Baroque-style Roman Catholic church with a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Originally a chapel of a Jesuit college, it stands as a testament to the city's religious heritage and architectural beauty.

A brief summary to Notre-Dame des Tables Church

Local tips

  • Visit during the late afternoon to witness the sunlight streaming through the stained-glass windows, creating a colorful and serene atmosphere.
  • Check the church's schedule for any special services or events that may be taking place during your visit.
  • Explore the surrounding area for local cafés and boutiques to experience the local culture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Place de la Comédie, head south on Boulevard de la Liberté. Continue until you reach Rue de la Loge, then turn left onto Rue de l'Aiguillerie. The church is located at 43 Rue de l'Aiguillerie. The walk is approximately 15 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From the Montpellier Saint-Roch train station, walk towards the tram station. Take tram line 1 towards Odysseum and get off at the 'Comédie' stop. From there, walk south on Boulevard de la Liberté and turn left onto Rue de l'Aiguillerie. The church will be on your right. A single tram ticket costs €1.60 and is valid for 1.5 hours.

  • Car

    Navigate to Montpellier city center. From Camargue, take the A9 highway towards Montpellier. Exit at A709 towards Montpellier and follow signs for Centre Ville. Once in the city center, follow Rue de la Loge and turn onto Rue de l'Aiguillerie. The church is at 43 Rue de l'Aiguillerie. Street parking is available, costing around €1.50 per hour.

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Discover more about Notre-Dame des Tables Church

Notre-Dame des Tables Church, nestled in the heart of Montpellier, is more than just a religious building; it's a journey through the city's intricate past. The church's story began in the early medieval period, around what is now Place Jean-Jaurès, known then as the primitive church of Sainte-Marie. By 1204, it had become known as Notre-Dame des Tables, a name derived from the money changers and merchants who set up their 'tables' around the church, a key stop for pilgrims en route to Santiago de Compostela. Throughout the centuries, the church faced numerous challenges, including destructions and reconstructions during the Wars of Religion. It was even repurposed as a Protestant temple for a time. The original structure was ultimately destroyed in 1794, leaving only remnants of its crypt and burial vaults. These remnants now form part of the Museum of Old Montpellier. In 1802, the name and legacy of the original Marian shrine were transferred to the former Jesuit chapel, which was then transformed into the parish church of Notre-Dame des Tables. This Baroque-style building, completed in 1748 under architect Jean Giral, is what visitors see today. In 1939, it was elevated to the status of a minor basilica by Pope Pius XII. The basilica's architecture showcases a blend of Baroque and classical styles, featuring an ornate façade, intricate carvings, and grand entrances. Inside, stained glass windows depict biblical scenes, casting colorful light throughout the serene space. The church also houses religious art and artifacts. Today, Notre-Dame des Tables Church is part of the Montpellier Cathedral Parish, uniting all the churches in the city center. It stands as a cultural and spiritual beacon, preserving Montpellier's rich heritage and devotion to the Virgin Mary.

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