Right by the old port, this church immediately stands out with its warm-toned stone and distinctive architecture. It’s a landmark you notice from a distance, and appreciate more once you step inside.

The Basilique Notre-Dame-de-la-Victoire, located in Saint-Raphaël, was built between 1883 and 1887 in a neo-Byzantine style using pink sandstone from the nearby Massif de l’Esterel. Its design, both solid and decorative, reflects a period when coastal towns were expanding alongside tourism on the Riviera.

Inside, the atmosphere is shaped by large stained-glass windows, many created by master glassmakers from Chartres using the distinctive glass slab technique. These were installed after World War II to replace earlier windows damaged during the conflict. The interior also features a more recent organ and a neo-Romanesque Stations of the Cross, adding layers from different periods.

The basilica was elevated to minor basilica status in 2004, reinforcing its importance within the region. Its position near the harbor makes it an easy stop while exploring the town, whether you’re walking along the seafront or visiting nearby markets and cafés.

👉 Local Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the sunlight filters through the stained glass and the square outside starts to fill with locals heading toward the port for the evening.