View of Marseille cityscape with historic buildings and the Mediterranean Sea

Église Saint Vincent De Paul

Complete Guide to Visiting Église Saint-Vincent-de-Paul (Les Réformés), Marseille

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Église Saint-Vincent-de-Paul, affectionately known as “Les Réformés,” is a neo-Gothic masterpiece and one of Marseille’s most distinguished landmarks. Towering at the upper end of the historic Canebière boulevard, the church greets visitors with its soaring twin spires, elaborate stained glass, and richly storied past. Built on the foundations of a 17th-century Augustinian convent, the current edifice, constructed between 1855 and 1886, reflects the Gothic Revival aesthetic inspired by iconic French cathedrals such as Reims and Amiens. Named for Saint Vincent de Paul—a symbol of charity—the church remains both a vibrant center for worship and a beacon of community and cultural life. This comprehensive guide details the church’s origins, architecture, visiting hours, accessibility, nearby attractions, and tips for making the most of your visit (marseilletourisme.fr; Triphobo; Marseille.fr).

Eglise du Chapêtre church in Marseille photographed between 1850 and 1920

Church of St Vincent de Paul in Marseille under construction in 1850s with detailed architectural elements and scaffolding on the south side

Church of St Vincent de Paul under construction in Marseille, showing the south transept angle with scaffolding

Church of St Vincent de Paul in Marseille under construction, showing the central nave apse

Church of St Vincent de Paul in Marseille under construction, photo from 1852-1855 showing the north side angle of the transept

Construction site of Church of St Vincent de Paul in Marseille showing northern transept angle

Church of St Vincent de Paul in Marseille under construction, showing the north lateral nave and its apse

Church of St Vincent de Paul under construction in Marseille showing the eastern tower from the north facade side

View of Saint Vincent de Paul Church in Marseille under construction, focusing on the No. 9 south side lateral facade facing the street, circa 1852-1855

Interior view of the northern transept of the St Vincent de Paul Church under construction in Marseille, France, circa 1852-1855

Neogothic Roman Catholic church St Vincent de Paul in Marseille around 1900

Exterior view of Église Saint-Vincent-de-Paul in Marseille with clear sky

Plaça de Marsella with a monument and a church in the background

View of Saint Vicens de Paul Church in Marseille

Historical Background
Architectural and Artistic Highlights
Restoration and Heritage Status
Visiting Information
Religious & Community Life
Cultural Significance
Photography and Visitor Tips
Nearby Attractions
FAQs
Conclusion
Sources

Historical Background

From Augustinian Roots to Neo-Gothic Grandeur

The site of Église Saint-Vincent-de-Paul carries a deep religious legacy. Originally, it hosted a chapel and convent established by the Reformed Augustinians in 1611. The foundation stone was laid by the Duke de Guise, Governor of Provence, marking the area as a center of spiritual and social life in Marseille. The original structures served the community until their eventual demolition in the 19th century, reflecting the shifting landscape of church-state relations in France (marseilletourisme.fr).

In response to Marseille’s urban expansion and the desire for a grander place of worship, construction of the current church began in 1855 under architect François Reybaud and later Abbot Joseph-Guillaume Pougnet. The project spanned more than 30 years, facing financial and logistical challenges, and was completed in 1886, with formal consecration in 1888.

Dedication and Naming

The church is dedicated to Saint Vincent de Paul, a 17th-century French priest renowned for his compassion and service to the poor. The nickname “Les Réformés” pays homage to the site’s Augustinian heritage, symbolizing a bridge between the city’s medieval past and its 19th-century ambitions.

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

Neo-Gothic Design and Inspiration

Église Saint-Vincent-de-Paul is a stellar example of neo-Gothic architecture. Its design draws inspiration from the cathedrals of Reims and Amiens, a deliberate choice to evoke spiritual transcendence and historical continuity (Wikipedia; Marseille.fr).

Twin Spires and Façade: The twin towers, each nearly 70 meters high, dominate the city’s skyline. The façade is adorned with neogothic elements such as pinnacles, ornate stonework, and bronze gates by Caras-Latour (Marseille Tourisme; Spotting History).
Interior Layout: Inside, a vast nave with ribbed vaults and ogival arches creates a luminous, uplifting space. The Latin cross design mirrors the proportions of its Gothic forerunners (Spotting History).
Stained Glass Windows: With 55 windows spanning 1,270 square meters, Édouard Didron’s stained glass is the largest collection in southeastern France—depicting biblical scenes, saints, and local traditions (Marseille.fr; POP Culture Gouv).
Artistic Furnishings: Notable features include the high altar by Jules Cantini, statues by Louis Botinelly (notably Joan of Arc), and the Merklin organ. Many elements, such as the side altars and bronze gates, are listed as historical monuments (POP Culture Gouv).

Restoration and Heritage Status

A major restoration project (2019–2023) invested €19 million in structural repairs, stained glass conservation, and improved accessibility, including new ramps. These works preserved both the church’s structural integrity and artistic details, ensuring its role as a living monument. Since 2014–2015, the church and its furnishings have been officially protected as a Monument Historique (Marseille.fr; POP Culture Gouv).

Visiting Information

Location and Access

Address: 8 cours Franklin Roosevelt, 13001 Marseille
Metro: Réformés–Canebière (Line 1)
Bus: Multiple lines serve the Canebière
Parking: Limited street parking; public garages nearby (marseille.ca)

Opening Hours

Monday to Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
(Note: Some sources mention slightly different hours; always check the parish website before visiting.)

Admission and Tours

Entry: Free; donations welcome
Guided Tours: Available via Marseille’s tourism office or by request; self-guided visits recommended using apps like GPSmyCity
Accessibility: Ramps and pathway improvements accommodate visitors with reduced mobility. Some historic areas may have limited access—contact the parish ahead for assistance.

Religious Services

Mass Schedule:
- Sunday: 8:30 AM (quiet Mass), 10:30 AM (solemn with choir/organ)
- Tuesday–Friday: 6:30 PM; Thursday/Friday also at 7:30 AM (from Sept. 15)
- Saturday: 12:20 PM
- Monday: No regular Mass; occasional evening Mass (saintvincentdepaulmarseille.com)
Confession:
- Tuesday–Friday: 5:15 PM – 6:15 PM
- Sunday: After 8:30 AM Mass until 11:45 AM and after Masses by appointment

Facilities

Restrooms: Not available inside; use nearby cafés or public facilities
Gift Shop: Not present; candles and religious items sold at a small kiosk
Parish Office: Open Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM; +33 (0)4 91 48 57 45

Religious & Community Life

Église Saint-Vincent-de-Paul is a thriving parish, hosting regular Masses, catechism, youth groups, prayer meetings, and charitable activities such as Sunday breakfasts for the homeless. The Santonniers’ Mass, held annually in November, celebrates Marseille’s famed nativity figurine artisans and is a highlight of the church’s integration with local culture (marseilletourisme.fr).

Cultural Significance

Designated as Marseille’s 82nd Historical Monument, Les Réformés is a symbol of both the city’s Catholic heritage and its cosmopolitan identity. Its monumental presence atop La Canebière marks the transition between Marseille’s vibrant commercial center and the residential Thiers district, making it both a spiritual beacon and an urban landmark (Marseille Tourisme).

Photography and Visitor Tips

Best Photography Times:
- Interior: Mid-morning, when sunlight illuminates the stained glass
- Exterior: Late afternoon (“golden hour”) for dramatic shots of the façade and spires
Etiquette: Modest attire required; maintain silence and respect during services. Flash photography and photography during Mass are discouraged.

Nearby Attractions

Combine your visit to Les Réformés with:

La Canebière: Marseille’s historic boulevard lined with shops and cafés
Vieux-Port (Old Port): 10–15 minute walk, hub for restaurants, markets, and boat tours
Marseille History Museum: For deeper insight into the city’s past
Other churches: Église Saint-Théodore, Paroisse Sainte Rose de Lima, and Église Saint-Pierre et Saint-Paul (horairemesses.fr)

FAQs

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, entry is free. Donations are encouraged.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, through Marseille’s tourism office or self-guided via apps.

Q: What are the church’s opening hours?
A: Typically 8:00 AM–8:00 PM (Mon–Sat), 8:00 AM–7:00 PM (Sun). Verify before visiting.

Q: Is the church accessible to people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with ramps and improved pathways after recent renovations.

Q: When are the best times to visit?
A: Early mornings or late afternoons for a quieter experience; mid-morning for stained glass photography.

Conclusion

Église Saint-Vincent-de-Paul (Les Réformés) is an essential stop for anyone exploring Marseille’s religious, historical, or artistic heritage. Its breathtaking neo-Gothic architecture, vibrant stained glass, and active parish life create a unique blend of spirituality, culture, and community. Whether attending a Mass, admiring the artistry, or learning about Marseille’s layered history, visitors will find Les Réformés a living symbol of the city’s enduring spirit.

Plan your visit using this guide, explore nearby attractions, and make use of walking tour apps like Audiala for a deeper experience. For up-to-date visiting hours, Mass times, and event information, consult the official parish website or Marseille’s tourism resources.