{"id":8277,"date":"2024-06-17T17:22:49","date_gmt":"2024-06-17T15:22:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/visit-basilique-saint-martin-tours\/"},"modified":"2024-06-18T14:10:31","modified_gmt":"2024-06-18T12:10:31","slug":"visit-basilica-saint-martin-tours","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-basilica-saint-martin-tours\/","title":{"rendered":"Basilica Saint-Martin (Tours): visit + photos"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Located right next to the Clock Tower, we loved <\/strong>visit the Basilica of Saint-Martin! We were charmed by this Romanesque-Byzantine church<\/strong> housing the relics of Saint Martin<\/strong>, which is well worth a visit for its majestic appearance<\/strong>, stunning nave<\/strong> and magnificent collection of stained glass windows<\/strong>.Here are some useful tips<\/strong> for planning your visit to the Basilique Saint-Martin<\/strong> in Tours<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n

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This guide is completely independent<\/strong>, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n

Is a visit to Saint Martin's Basilica worthwhile?<\/h2>\n\n

The Basilica of Saint-Martin is well worth a visit! We loved our visit to the Basilica of Saint-Martin, whose Roman-Byzantine style stands in stark contrast to that of Saint-Gatien's Cathedral<\/a>. In addition to its exteriors, which we recommend you take a closer look at from both sides, you'll also have the pleasure of discovering its richly decorated interiors. Between the finely sculpted neo-Romanesque capitals, the pretty frieze of foliage in the nave, and the various stained glass windows dedicated to Saint Martin or his relics, you won't know where to turn! For us, it's one of the best activities in town!<\/a><\/p>\n\n

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What you can see<\/h2>\n\n

The facade of the basilica <\/h3>\n\n

The tour begins on the west (south) facade, where you can admire the sober stonework and monumental porch, enhanced by neo-Romanesque capitals. Although the basilica was only built in 1887, it blends in perfectly with the surrounding landscape, in particular the 11th-century Tour Charlemagne, which bears witness to the former basilica. On the forecourt, don't miss the Calvary (not pictured) depicting Saint Martin sharing his cloak.<\/p>\n\n

\"Overview<\/figure>\n\n

The chevet and the statue of Saint Martin<\/h3>\n\n

We're always on the lookout for the chevet of a church, and the Byzantine-style chevet of the Basilica of Saint-Martin is particularly impressive.Look up and admire the statue of Saint Martin blessing the city of Tours on the slate-covered dome. Created in bronze by sculptor Jean Hugues, it measures 4.25m.<\/p>\n\n

\"Overview<\/figure>\n\n
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OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Loire<\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\n