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Saint Michel Basilica, Menton
17th-century church in the centre of Menton
The first stone of the Saint Michel basilica in Menton was set in 1619, but it was not finished until 1653, and consecrated in 1675. Located in the old town, it boasts a beautiful Baroque style.
The tower was built in 1701, and it is 53 metres high, dominating the village. The current façade was rebuilt in 1819. The coloured cobbles of its square are arranged to form the Grimaldi's coat of arms
Inside, it has an interesting 17th-century organ. The Festival of Classical Music of Menton is celebrated in this church every August.
Visitor comments
- "This entire square is absolutely beautiful. The setting between the sea and the mountains is truly breathtaking. The best time might be at night just as the Sun is setting over the mountains and casting over the Basilica and water. This is a must while in Menton." - Trip Advisor
- "We climbed up eight or nine flights of stairs from the Garavan harbuor side to access this hilltop church. It's a landmark on the Menton skyline & lit up every night. We can see it from our place in Italy, miles away. The basilica and adjacent chapel are something like 800+ years old. Gorgeous architecture. Amazing views of the Italian coast. The famed annual music festival is held in the square here each August. We took winding streets back down through a charming neighborhood." - Trip Advisor
- "A landmark in Menton, with a majestic view. The square outside The Basilica is a Menton must. Take a look inside the church and feel the power of "St Michel", Menton's own saint. He is celebrated on the last Sunday of September every year. A very nice event. Then continue your walk up the narrow medieval streets towards the cemetery on the top of the Old Town." - Trip Advisor
When to come
The basilica is open from 10:00 to 12:00 and from 15:00 to 17:00 except for weekends and holidays. From the end of October to mid December, it only opens in the afternoon. In July and August, open from 10:00 to 12:00 and 16:00 to 18:00.
