Basilique Notre-Dame des Ardents Arras
A historically rich basilica in Arras, known for its unique Romanesque-Byzantine style and the legend of the healing candle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Rarely open, special access!
Basilique Notre-Dame des Ardents Arras
Best Time
Rarely open, special access!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historically rich basilica in Arras, known for its unique Romanesque-Byzantine style and the legend of the healing candle.
"A beautiful monument with a fascinating history, though access is often limited."
🎯 Check Hours Before You Go
The basilica is rarely open, so confirm visiting times. Guided tours are a great way to get inside! :informationdeskperson:
📜 Learn the History
Understand the 'Miracle of the Ardents' legend for a richer appreciation of this unique site. 📜
Quick Facts
Rating
4.4 · 54 reviews
Type
Church
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Romanesque-Byzantine Architecture
Admire the unique architectural style, a blend of Romanesque Revival and Gothic Revival, completed in 1876.
The Miracle of the Ardents
Discover the legend of the healing candle that inspired the church's name and its historical significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Hours
Understand Its History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Hours Before You Go
The basilica is rarely open, so confirm visiting times. Guided tours are a great way to get inside! :informationdeskperson:
📜 Learn the History
Understand the 'Miracle of the Ardents' legend for a richer appreciation of this unique site. 📜
🤝 Guided Tours Recommended
If available, join a guided tour for fascinating insights and access. :male_detective:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Hours Before You Go
The basilica is rarely open, so confirm visiting times. Guided tours are a great way to get inside! :informationdeskperson:
📜 Learn the History
Understand the 'Miracle of the Ardents' legend for a richer appreciation of this unique site. 📜
🤝 Guided Tours Recommended
If available, join a guided tour for fascinating insights and access. :male_detective:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Basilique Notre-Dame des Ardents a beautiful and historically significant monument, though its infrequent opening hours are a common point of frustration. Those who manage to visit, especially during guided tours or special events, praise the rich history and unique architecture.
"In Arras, on the current Place des
Héros, before the French Revolution, one could see the Pyramid of the Holy Candle (linked to the Miracle of the Ardents - the healing of "Mal des Ardents", a horrible internal heat also known as the St. Anthony's Fire, which was cured through Mary by dipping wax from a candle in water by two jugglers to the sick, thus healing the faithful).
The Pyramid of the Holy Candle was destroyed in 1791 (actually more for reasons of disrepair, there was fear that the spire would collapse, than for revolutionary reasons).
Eighty years later the Pyramid was replaced by the Church of Our
Lady of the Ardents.
Construction started in 1869.
Although the architect Normand was a specialist in Romanesque Revival and Gothic Revival, a Romanesque-Byzantine style was chosen.
Notre-Dame des Ardents was completed in 1876.
Unfortunately, the church is rarely open.
A little further away from the church is the statue of "Abbé Halluin".
Born on July 26, 1820 in Wimille.
Henri Halluin was the founder of an orphanage with the possibility of adoption (only for boys).
Abbot Halluin succeeded "his" children with great concern.
He placed boys who were not eligible for adoption in Paris or its suburbs, where they could work as errand boys, servants, porters, coachmen, etc.
His greatest concern was that his life's work would end after his death.
He tried a collaboration with the brotherhood of Saint-Vincent de Paul, but this combination did not succeed.
Yet there was one man who positively crossed his path, Father Picard.
Father Picard continued his work after Halluin's death in Boulogne-sur-mer in 1895 and established a collaboration with the Augustinian brothers of the Assumption, who successfully continued the life's work of Abbot Halluin and Father Picard."
Peter Van Renterghem
"Arriving at the opening and for the occasion of the Heritage Days, I was able to meet a lovely and charming woman who gave us a great explanatory guided tour! It was a pleasure and very interesting to discover the history of the Church of Notre Dame des Ardents. I advise you to do it before the Museum of Fine Arts! (Those who are curious will know why)"
Séréna
"Very beautiful church, we went there for a wedding, very satisfied with the priest's service."
Claudine Morel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The basilica is located in Arras, France. It's situated on the current Place des Héros. You can reach Arras by train from major French cities, and from the train station, it's a walk or short taxi ride to the city center where the basilica is located.
Parking in the city center of Arras can be challenging. It's recommended to use public parking garages available near Place des Héros.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The basilica is unfortunately rarely open to the public. It's crucial to check for specific opening times, especially during events like Heritage Days or for guided tours.
When the basilica is open, entry is often free, especially during public events. However, guided tours might have a small fee. Always verify in advance.
Your best chance to visit is during special occasions like Heritage Days (Journées Européennes du Patrimoine) or if a wedding or other event is scheduled.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The name refers to the 'Mal des Ardents' or 'St. Anthony's Fire,' a historical ailment. Legend says a miraculous candle from the Virgin Mary brought healing, linking the Virgin, the candle, and local minstrels.
The basilica was completed in 1876 and features a Romanesque-Byzantine style, designed by architect Normand.
Yes, guided tours are sometimes available, especially during open days. These tours are highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the basilica's history and significance.
The basilica is located on Place des Héros, a central square in Arras. Nearby attractions include the Museum of Fine Arts and other historical sites.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary, especially during services or events. It's best to be discreet and respectful. If a guided tour is happening, ask your guide.
The exterior of the basilica, especially its unique architectural features, can be photographed from Place des Héros. Capturing it during different times of day can offer varied lighting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit