Lower Part of the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Dark Lower Church in the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Dark Lower Church in the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

I was surprised to know that the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière actually is two churches in one. They are actually built one on top of the other. It is not just a chapel but a full blown church. The first and upper church is the fancy looking church which the basilica is known for. The lower church can be accessed by a flight of stairs and it is a huge contrast to the ornate design of the church just above it. The design of the lower church is much more simple and it is not as bright. It might have been just my eyes adjusting to the lower church’s interiors but it is actually quite dark in here.

Lower Church in the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Lower Church in the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Surprisingly, the lower church feels much more spacious compared to the one above. Perhaps this is because people tend to linger in the upper church. This lower church is intended to be a place of quiet contemplation. It might be difficult to do that since there will always be people here. Still, it is a good change of scenery away from the crowds above. While not a lot of people would probably come here, I think there is still something to see here. After all, two churches in one building is not easy to come by these days.

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