“Originally a simple priory.” These are the words that begin the story of the Église Sainte-Marguerite. This church stands in Marseille’s 9th arrondissement. But its history stretches back much further than many realize.
Originally this site was a simple priory. It was attached to the Abbey of Saint Victor. The current Église Sainte-Marguerite was built in the 19th century. The architect Charles Bodin designed it.
Let’s talk about the church’s lighting. In 2014, the city modernized the public lighting in Place Antide Boyer. The new lighting design for the Église Sainte-Marguerite was part of this project. The design uses a mix of warm white, neutral white and cold white lights. This subtle blend helps to reveal and magnify the church’s features.
Église Sainte-Marguerite isn’t just a historical building. It is a place of active worship. Parish priest Nicolas Lubrano leads the congregation. Mass is held on Saturdays at 6:30 pm. Sunday mass is at 10:30 am. During the week, there are masses on Tuesday at 7 pm. Masses also take place on Wednesday and Thursday at 8 am. Friday evenings feature a 7 pm mass. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament precedes it at 6:30 pm.
Église Sainte-Marguerite also hosts occasional concerts. The church is open every day throughout the year.
Inside the Église Sainte-Marguerite, you can find the Pieta de Botinelly. The stained-glass windows made by Pinta are also worth seeing. The church’s sumptuous decor is generally admired.
The church’s organ was built in 1912. It came from the Parisian workshop of Aristide Cavaillé-Coll. He was a famous organ builder.
The Église Sainte-Marguerite isn’t open every day. However, the gate remains open during the day. One can contact the secretariat.
So, as we stand before the Église Sainte-Marguerite, remember its journey. From a simple priory to the church we see today. It’s a testament to Marseille’s enduring faith and artistry. The Église Sainte-Marguerite continues to serve its community. It offers solace, music, and a space for reflection.