Monastère Notre-Dame de la Daurade, monastery located in Haute-Garonne, in France
Monastère Notre-Dame de la Daurade is a basilica on the Garonne riverbank in Toulouse with origins dating to the 5th century. The neoclassical building houses large paintings depicting the life of the Virgin Mary inside, including the revered Black Madonna statue.
The structure was originally built around 400 CE on the remains of a Roman temple and took its name from the gilded mosaics that adorned it. In the 18th century, the church had to be completely demolished and reconstructed, retaining its religious importance for the city.
The basilica centers on devotion to the Black Madonna, a revered statue that draws many visitors. The figure is dressed in robes by renowned designers for special occasions and represents protection for women and expectant mothers.
The building is located near Esquirol metro station and is accessible by buses that stop nearby. It is open most days and can be visited free of charge, with informational materials available for visitors interested in learning more about its history.
After each service, the priest distributes blessed belts to women as symbols of the Virgin Mary's protection for mothers and unborn children. This tradition shows the strong local faith and connection to the site that has endured for centuries.
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