Notre-Dame de la Garde: Our Lady of the Guard Faith, Pride and Light for the People of Marseille
Reading time: 4 minutes
A figure watching over Marseille
Impossible to miss. Perched 149 meters above sea level on its rocky hill, Notre-Dame de la Garde, lovingly called “la Bonne Mère” (the Good Mother), is far more than a monument. She’s a landmark, a lighthouse, a guardian. Visible from nearly every neighborhood, she stands like a familiar, comforting, protective presence.
Every morning, her golden silhouette catches the first rays of sunlight. Every evening, she watches over sailors, travelers, and families under the starry sky.
A deeply rooted symbol of faith
Since the Middle Ages, people have climbed up the hill to pray, to find peace, to say thank you. The current basilica, built in the 19th century in a Roman-Byzantine style, is a sanctuary where believers and non-believers alike leave their ex-votos: model boats, plaques, children’s drawings. So many signs of gratitude, of miracles, of stories lived.
In Marseille, even those who don’t follow any religion talk about the Bonne Mère with affection. “She protects,” say the elders. “She’s there when you need her,” say the young. A popular faith, simple and sincere.
Pride of Marseille and a living heritage
She’s on OM jerseys, tattooed on arms, chanted in stadiums. The Bonne Mère is an icon. She embodies a certain Marseille spirit: proud, rebellious, but with a wide-open heart.
And even if you’re not a believer, there’s something you feel up there. The sea breeze, the silence despite the city below, that statue of the Virgin holding her child high above the world. A moment that speaks beyond words.
👉 Explore our article about the history and legends of the Bonne Mère
The climb… and the inner journey
Whether you go on foot, by tourist train or electric bike, getting up to the basilica is already an adventure. And once at the top, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking view: the sea, the terracotta rooftops, the distant hills. It’s an invitation to slow down, breathe, take it all in.
👉 Check out our guided tours to discover Marseille differently
A heart-touching moment for travelers too
Many of our guests at La Girelle tell us: “We climbed to the Bonne Mère, and we were moved.” By the beauty of the place, its peaceful aura, or simply the feeling of being in the right place.
👉 Read the story of a traveler who fell in love with Marseille
Before you go…
If you come to Marseille, go greet the Bonne Mère. Even if you don’t pray, even just to enjoy the view or feel the Mistral wind on your face. It’s a simple and beautiful way to connect with the soul of this city.
👉 Plan your stay and get in touch with us at La Girelle – we might just share our own moment with the Good Mother…
