Cathedral of St. Repara
In Nice on the Mediterranean Sea in southern France, which is already not lacking in sights, the Cathédrale Ste-Réparate is one of the most outstanding buildings - both literally and figuratively. Already from a distance, one can see its bell tower that also dominates the skyline of the city centre of Nizza. Thereby, this bell tower stands as a separate building beside the actual cathedral that is the most massive sacral building in the whole city area of Nizza.
Located in the Vielle Ville district, in the old town of Nice, this baroque church is dedicated to the patron saint of Nice. This is Saint Réparate, who, according to legend, died a martyr's death for her faith in the 3rd century and whose veneration in Nice goes back at least to the 9th century. The construction of the Cathédrale Ste-Réparate was started in the year 1650, it was finished in the year 1699. This is why the whole construction is of course marked by the time in which it was planned: the baroque of the 17th century.
Baroque style with many decorations
This applies both to the interior, which is lavishly decorated with stucco and frescoes, and to the façade. The altar is made of marble, as are the pulpit and the balustrades in the nave of the cathedral.
The central part of the cathedral is the main hall, whose dome rises 39 metres in height. This dome has eight coloured glass windows that were installed in 1900. Here, in the main room, there is also the organ of the church that was purchased in the year 1901. On both sides of the main room there are five side chapels, which are mostly equipped with relics and further altars.
Since 1909 the Cathédrale Ste-Réparate already has the status of a historical monument, thus it is protected against rough architectural changes. After the Second World War, some things had to be repaired, but without such serious interventions in the architectural character of the cathedral. In this respect, during an excursion to the Cathédrale Ste-Réparate, one still visits a building in that style in which it was originally created. But the façade was only built in afterwards in the time between 1825 and 1830. It shows the four bishops who founded the cathedral and Saint Réparate.
Events in the cathedral are worth a visit
It is also worthwhile to find out what events are taking place in the Cathédrale Ste-Réparate. Again and again, there are some classical concerts that are of course a real experience in this dignified frame and also with very good acoustics. If one is in Nizza at a time when one of these concerts are held, this would be an opportunity that should not be missed if one is in the mood for classical music.
The address of the Cathédrale Ste-Réparate, that is also known as Basilique-Cathédrale Sainte-Marie et Sainte-Réparate de Nice, is 3 Pl. Rossetti in 06300 Nice, as mentioned at the beginning, it is surrounded by many other historical buildings in the oldtown. Even if one does not plan to visit the cathedral, one can enjoy its historical as also impressive exterior by having a drink in one of the street cafés around it. Nevertheless, one should not miss this cathedral, as it is rightly considered as the most relevant and beautiful one of Nice and its surroundings.
Opening hours
- Open every day from 9 to 12 and from 2 to 6 p.m.
Tickets and prices
- Admission to the church is free. However, attention should be paid to appropriate clothing (no shorts, tops, etc).
