The Cathédrale de la Major is much more than a religious building; it is a symbol of openness and architectural wealth. This imposing monument, which overlooks the Joliette district, embodies the ambitions of the Phocean city since the Second Empire. Its history, blending Byzantine, Gothic, and Romanesque influences, makes this place a must-see during your visit to Marseille. Follow me to discover the hidden treasures of the Major, from its ancient mosaics to its breathtaking panorama of the Mediterranean 🌊.
Napoleon III’s ambition: to make Marseille shine
It was in 1852, as Marseille was blossoming as one of France’s main ports, that Napoleon III decided to modernize the city. Admirative of its vitality, he wished to transform the port city into a center of exchange and culture. He embarked on colossal projects: the Rue de la République, the Palais de la Bourse, and of course, the Cathédrale de la Major. This choice of grand construction responded to a need for monumentality, openness to the world, and external influence.
The location of the Major is not insignificant. The new building stands on the ruins of the Vieille Major, a magnificent Romanesque church from the 12th century, itself built on a paleochristian church. Although the Vieille Major was partially destroyed, it still retains one nave and one apse that can be admired today, silent witnesses of past centuries.
An architecture of Byzantine and Eastern influences
The construction of the Major spanned nearly 40 years, from 1852 to 1893, involving several talented architects, including Léon Vaudoyer, Henri-Jacques Espérandieu, and Henri-Antoine Révoil. Inspired by the Byzantine style, the cathedral features domes and dome-like structures reminiscent of the East. The green stones from Florence alternate with white stones from Calissane, giving the building a unique and imposing aspect.
From the entrance, one is struck by its two tall bell towers of 60 meters, and its impressive length of 142 meters. Inside, the richness of the materials, particularly the white Carrara marble and the red porphyry (a volcanic stone), catches the eye. The mosaics of the nave, of Byzantine influence, depict biblical scenes, and the large central dome, flanked by four smaller ones, floods the space with a soft light thanks to the numerous twin windows.
Some key figures
- Length: 142 meters
- Height under the dome: 70 meters
- Capacity: up to 3,000 people
A unique experience: concerts and guided tours
If the Cathédrale de la Major impresses with its architecture, it also fascinates with its exceptional acoustics. Attending an organ concert here is an enchanting experience, thanks to an acoustic that amplifies the music in a magical way. Guided tours are regularly organized, offering an exciting dive into the history and architectural secrets of this monument.
Don’t miss the statue of Véronique in the third transept, a masterpiece by Auguste Carli, or the ambulatory surrounding the choir, enhanced by six chapels with polychrome marble flooring. In the crypt, you will find the tombs of two prominent figures from Marseille: Monseigneur de Belsunce, heroic during the plague of 1720, and Cardinal de Mazenod.
The Euroméditerranée district: a new face for the Major
Around the Major, the Euroméditerranée project has given new life to the neighborhood. The vaults beneath the cathedral have been transformed into commercial spaces, and the surrounding monuments like the Tour Saint-Jean, MuCEM, and Villa Méditerranée are just a stone’s throw away. At night, the Major is illuminated, offering a striking visual spectacle and a magnificent view of the sea.
This district, well-served by public transport, also has a 750-space parking lot, and easy access from the surrounding underground highways. Additionally, its proximity to the quays allows for boarding many cruise ships, making it a perfect starting point to explore the Mediterranean.
A Marseille tradition: the Assumption procession
Every year, on August 15, the Procession to the Madone animates the streets of Marseille. The golden statue of the Virgin leaves the Major and travels through the alleys of the Panier, a nearby iconic neighborhood. This moment, both spiritual and festive, gathers locals and visitors in a unique atmosphere.
The Cathédrale de la Major, an architectural gem and symbol of Marseille’s history, offers you a journey through the ages. Whether you are passionate about history, a concert lover, or just curious, do not miss this essential stop during your next getaway to Marseille!
