Chapelle de la Galline

High on a hill overlooking Marseille, Chapelle de la Galline stands as a silent sentinel. It has watched over the valley for centuries. Chapelle de la Galline isn’t just a charming chapel. It’s a keeper of tales, a testament to faith, and a symbol of protection. Located in the 16th arrondissement, in the area known as La Nerthe, the Chapelle de la Galline offers a glimpse into Marseille’s rich past. The very name, “La Galline,” meaning “the hen” in Provençal, hints at the unique story within. Inside, a 15th-century wooden statue of the Virgin Mary depicts the infant Jesus holding a small hen. This hen, a symbol of protection and nurturing, links the chapel to a powerful narrative of resilience and hope. Legend says that no one in La Nerthe fell victim to the devastating plague of 1720. This was attributed to the combined protection of “La Galline” and Saint Roch, whose image also graces the chapel. Chapelle de la Galline’s history stretches back to the Middle Ages. It was consecrated as the Church of La Nerthe in 1042. Over the centuries, it transitioned from a bustling parish church to a quiet chapel, its fortunes mirroring those of the surrounding village. The chapel’s architecture reflects its long history. The simple rectangular nave, built with limestone blocks and featuring a ribbed vault, speaks to its medieval origins. The bell tower, topped with a statue of the Virgin, was added in 1870. Inside, recent stained-glass windows depict the Virgin and Saint Roch. Ex-votos and religious paintings adorn the walls. These elements combine to create a space of both historical and spiritual significance. Though usually closed, Chapelle de la Galline opens its doors for monthly masses and a special pilgrimage on September 8th, the Nativity of the Virgin. On this day, a procession ascends from L’Estaque to La Nerthe. It culminates in a grand mass in front of the chapel, a vibrant celebration of faith and tradition. So, next time you find yourself in Marseille, take a detour to Chapelle de la Galline. Discover its quiet charm. Reflect on its enduring story of faith and protection, symbolized by a simple hen held in the arms of the Christ child.