A Roman-Byzantine style of sober majesty
Built of white La Turbie stone in 1875, the cathedral 's architectural harmony is truly impressive. Inside, visitors can admire a high altar in white Carrara marble, an episcopal throne and an altarpiece by Louis Bréa, a Renaissance painter from Nice, dated1500. This religious masterpiece is a precious testimony to Mediterranean artistic heritage.
From the church of Saint-Nicolas to today's cathedral
Between 1215 and 1240, the Rocher became a fortified town. On 6 December 1247, a papal bull issued by Pope Innocent IV established the first independent parish of La Turbie and authorised the construction of a church dedicated to Saint Nicolas, the patron saint of sailors. Completed in 1321, this church was built on the site of the present-day cathedral.
Over the centuries, several chapels were added, creating a rich and complex place of worship. But in 1868, when the territory of Monaco was separated from the diocese of Nice, the decision was taken to build a new cathedral. The old church of Saint-Nicolas was demolished, and on 6 January 1875, Prince Charles III laid the foundation stone for the current building.
The cathedral was dedicated to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and placed under the secondary protection of Saint Nicholas and Saint Benedict. It was officially consecrated on 11 June 1911.
A great organ unique in Europe
The large gallery above the narthex houses a monumental organ, built in 1976 by Jean-Loup Boisseau, in collaboration with Pierre Cochereau and Canon Henri Carol, who was the titular organist until 1984. It was then taken over by René Saorgin, and then by Olivier Vernet, titular organist since 2006.
Completely rebuilt by Manufacture d'orgues Thomas (Belgium), the organ was completed in December 2011 and is a masterpiece both musically and architecturally. It comprises 4 manuals, 79 stops and almost 7,000 pipes.
Noble materials were used: Vosges fir for the bellows, maple for the console and oak for the façade. Backlit Plexiglas panels provide a visual translation of the sound colour of the organ stops, for a unique multi-sensory experience.
Installed in 1976 by Tamburini (Crema, Italy), the choir organ is a sober accompaniment to liturgical celebrations.
A lively place of celebration and culture
Monaco's Cathedral of Notre-Dame-Immaculée is much more than just a monument: it remains a place of worship and gathering, alive with the rhythms of major religious festivals.
Pontifical offices are celebrated here on the major liturgical feasts, in particular :
- 27 January, the feast of Saint Devote, patron saint of the Principality
- 19 November, the Monegasque bank holidays.
Every Sunday from September to June, the 10 o'clock mass is sung by the Petits Chanteurs de Monaco and the Cathedral choir, perpetuating a tradition of vocal excellence. Numerous concerts are also organised, showcasing the great organ and the sacred repertoire.
A place of contemplation and admiration, the Cathedral is open to all, respecting religious customs.
Combining architectural beauty, spiritual history and cultural life, Monaco's Cathedral of Notre-Dame-Immaculée is a landmark of Monegasque heritage. Through its presence and traditions, it embodies the strong link between the Principality, faith and art.
Free access every day, except during religious services.
Correct dress is required. Shoulders must be covered. Mini-skirts and short shorts are forbidden (Bermuda shorts are accepted).