Cathedrale de la Major Guide: 10 Best Things to See

History and Architecture of La Major

The cathedral was built in the nineteenth century. It replaced an older church from the twelfth century. Napoleon III laid the first stone in 1852. The project took over forty years to finish.

The style is called Neo-Byzantine. It uses green and white limestone from Florence. This gives the building its unique striped look. The interior is just as impressive as the outside.

It can hold up to three thousand people. This makes it one of the largest cathedrals. It shows the wealth of Marseille at that time. The city was a major port for trade.

10 Best Things to See at Cathedrale de la Major

This cathedral is a highlight of any trip. It fits into a 1-day itinerary in Marseille well. You can see the main parts in one hour.

The building is split into two distinct sections. There is the new cathedral and the old ruins. Both parts offer something special for history fans.

Make sure to look up at the ceilings. The artwork is very detailed and colorful. You will see many statues of saints inside. Each one has a story to tell visitors.

1. The Striking Striped Neo-Byzantine Exterior Facade
   • Type: architectural sight
   • Why go: unique green and white stone
   • Best for: photography and history buffs
   • Where: the main western entrance
   • Time: twenty minutes of exploration
   • Cost: completely free to view
   • Getting there: walk from the port
   • Tip: look for the striped patterns
2. The Intricate Mosaic Floor Patterns Inside the Nave
   • Type: interior art
   • Why go: detailed colorful tile work
   • Best for: art lovers and historians
   • Where: the main floor area
   • Time: ten minutes of viewing
   • Cost: included in free entry
   • Getting there: enter through main doors
   • Tip: avoid walking on roped areas
3. The Massive Central Dome and Its Ornate Ceiling
   • Type: architectural feature
   • Why go: incredible height and detail
   • Best for: looking at grand scales
   • Where: center of the cathedral
   • Time: five minutes of looking
   • Cost: free for all visitors
   • Getting there: walk to the center
   • Tip: bring binoculars for details
4. The Historic Ruins of the Old Major Church
   • Type: historical ruin
   • Why go: see the original twelfth-century structure
   • Best for: medieval history fans
   • Where: side of the new building
   • Time: fifteen minutes of discovery
   • Cost: access may vary locally
   • Getting there: follow signs for Vieille Major
   • Tip: notice the Romanesque style
5. The Ornate Main Altar and Its Religious Relics
   • Type: religious site
   • Why go: beautiful marble and gold
   • Best for: spiritual and quiet reflection
   • Where: the far end of nave
   • Time: ten minutes of quiet
   • Cost: free to visit inside
   • Getting there: walk straight from entrance
   • Tip: stay quiet during prayers
6. The Side Chapel Dedicated to Saint Lazarus
   • Type: quiet chapel
   • Why go: dedicated to Marseille's patron
   • Best for: learning local religious lore
   • Where: along the side aisles
   • Time: five minutes of study
   • Cost: free for public access
   • Getting there: walk along the right
   • Tip: read the small plaques
7. The Grand Pipe Organ and Its Musical History
   • Type: musical instrument
   • Why go: impressive size and sound
   • Best for: music and craft fans
   • Where: above the main entrance
   • Time: five minutes to admire
   • Cost: free to view daily
   • Getting there: look up when entering
   • Tip: check for concert schedules
8. The Statues Representing the Twelve Apostles
   • Type: religious sculpture
   • Why go: masterfully carved stone figures
   • Best for: sculpture and art fans
   • Where: around the upper walls
   • Time: ten minutes of searching
   • Cost: free to see inside
   • Getting there: look at the pillars
   • Tip: count them as you walk
9. The Sweeping Views from the Front Sea Esplanade
   • Type: viewpoint
   • Why go: views of the Mediterranean
   • Best for: fresh air and photos
   • Where: outside the front doors
   • Time: fifteen minutes of relaxing
   • Cost: free public space
   • Getting there: step outside the church
   • Tip: great for sunset photos
10. The Modern Shopping Experience at Les Voûtes Nearby
    • Type: shopping experience
    • Why go: shops under the cathedral
    • Best for: souvenirs and local food
    • Where: directly below the terrace
    • Time: thirty minutes of browsing
    • Cost: varies by shop price
    • Getting there: take the stairs down
    • Tip: try the local biscuits

Essential Cathedrale de la Major Guide for Visitors

Planning your visit is very simple. The cathedral is open most days of the week. Entry is free for everyone to enjoy.

You should dress modestly when entering the church. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Start your Vieux Port Marseille walking route here. The walk takes about fifteen minutes from the port.

You can also take the tram or bus. The Joliette station is the closest stop nearby. Try to visit in the morning to avoid crowds. The light is also better for photos then.

Exploring the Neighborhood of Le Panier

The cathedral sits next to the oldest district. Take a Le Panier Marseille walking tour nearby. This area is full of narrow streets and art.

You will find many local shops and cafes. It is a great place to eat lunch. You can see street art on every corner.

The district has a very bohemian feel today. It was once the heart of the city. Now it is a popular spot for tourists.

Best Photography Spots Around the Cathedral

The cathedral is a dream for every photographer. Compare this view to visiting Notre Dame de la Garde across the water. The sea provides a perfect blue background here.

Stand on the esplanade for a wide shot. You can capture the whole building from there. The sunset makes the white stone glow orange.

Go to the Mucem museum for another angle. The bridge offers a high view of the domes. You can see the port from there too. Bring a wide lens for the best results.