Basilica of the Visitation
Basilica of the Visitation, Roman Catholic basilica on Mont Semnoz, Annecy, France
The Basilica of the Visitation is a church on Mont Semnoz above Annecy, built with reinforced concrete and classical design elements. A tall bell tower rises prominently from the structure, while colorful stained glass windows illuminate the interior with religious imagery.
Construction began in 1909 and finished in 1930, replacing an earlier structure destroyed during the French Revolution. The new building marked a fresh chapter for this sacred site in the region.
The basilica holds deep meaning for Catholic pilgrims due to its connection with Saint Francis de Sales and Saint Jeanne de Chantal. Visitors sense the spiritual importance that draws people to this hilltop shrine.
The basilica sits on a hilltop, so visitors need to walk up steps or a path to reach it. Comfortable shoes are recommended since the surroundings are hilly terrain.
The bell tower contains 38 bells, with the largest named Marie Francoise, which rings across the valley and can be heard from far away. This historic bell is a defining feature of the site.
Location: Annecy
Inception: 1930
Architects: Alfred-Henri Recoura, Henri Adé
Creator: Philippe Besnard, Fonderie Paccard
Architectural style: Romanesque Revival architecture
Height: 72 m
Made from material: reinforced concrete
Part of: monastère de la Visitation d'Annecy
Address: Avenue de la Visitation
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 07:00-12:00, 14:00-18:00
Phone: +33450452030
Website: https://diocese-annecy.fr/haute-savoie/basilique-visitation
GPS coordinates: 45.89253,6.12787
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:41
Annecy is found between the lake water and the mountains. The old town can be explored on foot, along the Thiou and its canals lined with colorful buildings. You can see the Isle Palace, an old jail from the 12th century on a small island, and the Annecy Castle, sitting above the roofs from its...
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