Standing in an elevated location in the picturesque foothills of Semnoz, the Basilique de la Visitation is one of the most prominent landmarks in the town of Annecy. As you approach Annecy, the tall spire of this pretty white building is one of the first things you are likely to see. Visit the basilica to admire its beautiful architecture and learn about the community of nuns who still live here today.
Take a quick glance at the basilica and you may think it is much older than it is. In fact, while it is over a century old, it’s still one of Annecy’s newer religious buildings. The construction of the basilica began in 1909 and the work was completed in 1930. However, the building was not consecrated until 1949, when Cardinal Tedeschini carried out the ritual. The basilica’s name is a reference to the visit Christ’s mother Mary paid to her cousin Elizabeth.
Before you step inside, pause for a moment to appreciate the lovely architecture of the building’s exterior.
Enter the basilica to enjoy a moment of calm in its tranquil interior. While the entire space is lovely, there are a few outstanding features, such as the wonderfully elaborate and impressive mosaics. The colorful stained-glass windows, designed by master glassmaker Chigot, are also very much worth seeing.
Perhaps the most interesting items within the church are the two bronze coffins which house relics believed to be from the bodies of two saints, St. Francis and St. Jeanne de Chantal. Leave time to visit the historic Church of St. Francis, also in Annecy, to see the building that originally housed these relics.
Visit the Basilique de la Visitation for free any day. Remember that a small group of nuns live and work here. You may see them going about their business during your visit.
