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Monday 25 May 2015

Lyon - Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Mike and I had a holiday in Lyon, France, for a week. It is the first proper holiday since we got Topaz, our first dog, and she is 11 years old now. Also this year is our 20th wedding anniversary. So we decided to celebrate it.

Lyon is my French 'hometown'. When I visited there for the first time when I was in my twenties, I liked it so much. Since then I have visited there quite a few times. It has changed so much since my last visit. It was so lovely we both could enjoy seeing around there.

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is one of the most beautiful churches I have ever seen. The exterior is beautiful, but interior is breath taking. I could feel the love of the people.

Local nickname- upside down elephant!


We took the oldest funicular of the world, 150 years old, to get to the top of the hill.

The world first 



Another world on the top of the hill


Everywhere is beautiful and ornate, Even the view is superb.

View over Lyon and beyond

Our hotel is on the top right along the avenue with trees. 
The Saone and Rhone




But most of all, I was taken by beautiful mosaics. It was very difficult to take photos, but here are some to share with you. I sat inside and just looked at mosaics. They are large, and each has a story.














The crypt is also beautiful This chicken protector caught my eyes. 






People built this on private funding to praise Maria for protecting Lyon from Black death and plague. I could feel the gratitude of the people towards her protection. This has become one of my favourite churches, and I will visit there again next time I visit Lyon.









2 comments:

  1. Ooh, I've been missing out, it seems! I used to go to France every summer, but have only ever driven through Lyon, I never stayed there, nor did Ireally see much of the city. Looks like I need to stay there sometime though. And I'll definitely have to visit that church if I do! Love those mosaics<3

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    1. You must! I had stayed in Lyon 4-5 times, and hadn't bothered to go up the hill until this time because the older transport was not very convenient; changing trams etc.. But now so easy! Mosaics are much more beautiful than these pics. You have to see them in person! : )

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