Major building projects
With New Momentum and funding, our goal is to welcome and better accommodate visitors while sharing the historic importance of Fourvière.
Origin of the project
Since September 8, 2016, major construction has begun on the site of the Basilica, thanks to the generosity of local residents and public institutions. Named: “Fourvière: A New Momentum”, this project’s aim is to make Fourvière more welcoming and lively in order to foster a spiritual experience through exposure and understanding of Fourvière’s history and its impact on the Christian world.
Goals
The work has been focused on the maintenance and renovation of the Basilica itself. Long forgotten, the buildings surrounding the site have become timeworn and outdated. These buildings will be modernised and transformed.
In the wake of the aspirations of those who conceived Fourvière, this new momentum will enable visitors from all spiritual and religious backgrounds to engage in a new social, cultural, spiritual and touristic experience.
New momentum for Fourvière
A project that combines…
Experiences
Everything has been designed to provide visitors with the best experience. Friendly and helpful volunteers and staff can be met everywhere: at the entrance pavilion, inside the basilica, in the shops and the restaurants where each exchange leads to a human connection.
Culture
The site of Fourvière is to become a major cultural hub in Lyon thanks to a Discovery Area, themed visits, and circuits on the hill. An enlarged museum and new cultural activities will be offered in order to promote new perspectives through art.
Spirituality
The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is blessed with a vibrant liturgical and spiritual life and enjoys a dynamic tradition of pilgrimage. Many visitors, believers and non-believers alike, feel there is a unique atmosphere on site.
Inclusive
Great care has been directed towards those in need and the disabled. Fourvière volunteers and staff are wholeheartedly committed to tending to everyone’s needs. In the joy of serving, Man is at the very core of the project: co-animation of ALGED (Association for children with deficiencies) reception at the entrance pavilion, solidarity catering with the Apprentis d’Auteuil, hosting civic services, and creating a home for young people.
The Chaplains’ house
Open since 2017
A quick snack can be purchased at the Chaplains’ house on the esplanade. Later, in 2020, the Orphelins Apprentis d’Auteuil, a charity offering a fresh start for those in need, will run a restaurant. For them this will be an opportunity to practise what they have learned and to become
more confident.
The piligrims’ shelter – Saint Joseph
Open since 2018
The piligrims’ shelter which can be found on the ground floor of the Maison Carrée, also known as Saint Joseph’s area, will host visitors who wish to picnic. This area of 130m² (1399 sq ft) can also be used for groups to meet and discuss pastoral issues.
The Pavillon
Opening in 2019
At the Pavilion – the visitor information center you will find out more about the different opportunities: trips, visits, cultural happenings, conferences and even spiritual key moments. It is located at the entrance to the promenade where the Café Berlioz used to be. In 2021, an area about the history of the site will open.
The discovery area
Opening in 2021
An area of over 6458 sq ft located in the basement of the promenade will give you a chance to find out about Fourvière, going back to the Antiquity and its construction. It will be a fun, interactive journey through time for all to enjoy.
The Belvedere
Opening in 2019
Near the Chaplains’ house, on the esplanade, overlooking Lyon, at the Belvédère, comfortably seated in the café, you will be able to admire the stunning panoramic view and even catch a glimpse of the Alp and the Mont Blanc. On the groundfloor you can visit the gift shop and find a variety of souvenirs ranging from touristic ones to more religious ones.
The Decourtray’s House
Opening in 2020
Built along the montée du Cardinal Decourtray a new building will host the rectory as well as the Fourvière foundation headquarters in which no less than 370 volunteers and members of staff work.
The Maison Carrée
Opening in 2021
South of the basilica, the Maison Carrée will be completely refurbished to create a cultural pole. It will include an area for exhibits, cocktails or seminars. The museum itself will be expanded and offer a different approach to art. On the first floor there will be a Bistronomic restaurant as well as a terrace. Large groups are warmly welcome in the Pilgrims’ Shelter.
Parking and green esplanade
Opening in 2021
Nature remains at the heart of the project. The carpark will be relocated in order to create an Arboretum on the Esplanade, for enjoyable strolls.