Basilique Saint-Michel-Archange
The Basilique Saint-Michel-Archange is a Baroque church in Menton's old town featuring high ceilings, soft light from roof windows, and ten small chapels inside. The building rises with a bell tower approximately 53 meters tall topped with decorative tiles, and its ornate facade displays a statue of Saint Michael at the center.
Construction began in 1619 under Prince Honoré II and was completed in 1653, with the main rooms consecrated in 1675. Following the 1887 earthquake, the building was restored, and in 1999 Pope John Paul II elevated it to the status of minor basilica.
The basilica is dedicated to the patron saint of Menton, Saint Michael, whose image dominates the facade. It remains an active place of worship where locals gather for religious services, celebrations, and community events.
Access to the basilica is via the popular Saint-Michel ramps staircase from the old port, taking about five minutes, or by car to the Vieille-Ville-Sablettes parking lot about four minutes away on foot. Entry is free and the building is open for visitors in the afternoon through late afternoon.
Inside, a ceiling painting of Saint Michael copies a famous work by Raphael and was added in the late 1800s. Many of the ten chapels also feature trompe-l'œil paintings on their ceilings that create the illusion of real objects and scenes.
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