Visiting the Basilica of Notre-Dame in Boulogne-sur-Mer

Introducing the Basilica of Notre-Dame

The Basilica of Notre-Dame in Boulogne-sur-Mer is a Catholic church located in the town of Boulogne-sur-Mer, in the Pas-de-Calais département in France.

It's considered one of the most important basilicas in the Opal Coast region. The basilica is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1846. It's also known as the "Basilica of the Sacred Heart" or "Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Treille".

History of the basilica

The Basilica of Notre-Dame in Boulogne-sur-Mer was built in the 19th century, between 1827 and 1848, to plans by architect Joseph-Auguste Duchesne. It was built on the ruins of the old cathedral of Boulogne, which had been destroyed during the French Revolution. The basilica was consecrated in 1848 by Monsignor Charles-François-Alexandre de La Fare, Archbishop of Boulogne.

The basilica's dome, its major feature

The dome of the Basilica of Notre-Dame in Boulogne-sur-Mer is a major architectural feature of the church. It sits above the transept and the nave, at the heart of the basilica. It's covered in zinc and visible from afar, making it an important landmark of the town of Boulogne-sur-Mer.

The basilica's dome stands around 60 metres high and is supported by four large marble columns. It's topped with a bronze cross, which is itself topped with a cast-iron weathervane. The dome is also adorned with numerous frescoes and stained-glass windows, which bring light into the basilica's interior.

The dome of the Basilica of Notre-Dame in Boulogne-sur-Mer is one of the church's most remarkable features, greatly admired by visitors for its beauty and grandeur.

You can climb up to the dome to enjoy panoramic views over the town and the surrounding region.

How to visit it?

The Basilica of Notre-Dame in Boulogne-sur-Mer is open to the public every day of the year. It's open from 9am to noon and from 2pm to 6pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 6pm at weekends and on public holidays.

Guided tours are also available, with professional guides who will introduce you to the history and features of the basilica.

Where to park for your visit?

There are several free car parks around the Basilica of Notre-Dame in Boulogne-sur-Mer where you can park during your visit. For example, you can park at the Boulogne-sur-Mer train station car park, about a 10-minute walk from the basilica, or at the Place Dalton car park, about a 15-minute walk away.

What's the best time to visit the basilica?

The Basilica of Notre-Dame in Boulogne-sur-Mer is accessible year-round and open every day, so you can visit at any time of year. However, if you'd like to enjoy pleasant weather, it's best to visit the basilica between April and October, during the sunniest months of the year.

Attending events at the basilica

Events are regularly held at the Basilica of Notre-Dame in Boulogne-sur-Mer. These can be religious, cultural or musical, and are open to the public.

Here are a few examples of events that may be held at the basilica:

It's recommended to check the basilica's website or contact the Boulogne-sur-Mer tourist office to find out about upcoming events at the basilica.

• Masses and religious services, held every day of the week.
• Music concerts, often organised as part of music festivals or concert seasons.
• Art exhibitions, showcasing the work of various artists in an exceptional setting.
• Talks and debates on cultural or historical themes, often organised by associations or groups of enthusiasts.