Presentation
Saint Jean-Marie Vianney the patron saint of priests was parish priest of Ars-sur-Formans from 1818 until 1859. Today his shrine is located in the village and it welcomes nearly 500,000 pilgrims and tourists annually.
The village of Ars-sur-Formans is a place of pilgrimage and religious importance and is home to the Ars Basilica which was designed by Pierre Bossan and built during the late 19th century. The basilica was constructed using both red brick and stone on the site of the old village church. It houses the shrine of Saint Jean-Marie Vianney whose body in entombed there. The Chapelle du Cœur which was constructed in 1930 also houses relics of the saint. Built in the 1950’s to commemorate his 100th anniversary, the church of Notre Dame de la Miséricorde which is partially underground was constructed. In the centre of Ars-sur-Formans there is also a delightful monument dedicated to the memory of Saint Jean-Marie Vianney.
Opening period
All year round, daily.
Rates
Free access.
Practical information
- Car park
