Abbey of Saint Victor de

Founded around 415 by Jean Cassien, the Saint-Victor abbey in Marseille was a notable religious centre before being destroyed in the 8th century by barbarian invasions. From the end of the 12th century to the 13th the abbey would be entirely rebuilt according to the regulations of Roman builders. It was Guillaume de Grimoard, at that point abbot of Saint-Victor,, who guaranteed the abbey’s fortification. The Revolution would transform the church into a filling station, a prison and later a barracks, thanks to which would escape demolition.

The renowned worldwide abbaye Saint-Victor would return to religion under the primary realm and be reestablished in the nineteenth century. The church became minor basilica in 1934, an initiative of Pope Pius XI. The church plays host to concerts of classical music throughout the year.