Saint-Epvre Basilica, Nancy's neo-Gothic spire

A thousand years of devotion in the Old Town

The Saint-Epvre parish was founded around 1080, dedicated to Epvre, bishop of Toul, whose relics are venerated here. Two churches followed one another before the third, judged too cramped, was demolished in 1863. The city then held a competition, won by local son Prosper Morey. The first stone was laid in May 1864, the building consecrated in 1871 and completed in 1875. As early as 26 November 1874, Pope Pius IX raised it to the rank of minor basilica. This rare and prestigious status reflects the sanctuary's spiritual standing, planted in Nancy's historic centre facing the equestrian statue of Duke René II.

An 87-metre spire in Euville stone

Prosper Morey chose a neo-Gothic style inspired by flamboyant Gothic, blending perfectly into the old fabric. The spire soars to 87 metres, while the nave reaches 24 metres under the vault over a length of nearly 84 metres. Euville stone, a pale limestone from the Meuse, gives the whole its luminous golden hue. The façade is fronted by a broad monumental staircase, a gift from Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria. Inside, canvases glued to the walls and faux mosaics echo medieval décor, while the choir is paved with green marble from the Via Appia, a present from Pope Pius IX.

Stained glass and gifts from across Europe

The basilica owes part of its splendour to the generosity of Europe's courts. Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie helped fund stained-glass windows, while other panels, made in Vienna between 1867 and 1877, bathe the nave in shimmering light. Visitors also admire the grand organ by Joseph Merklin, awarded a gold medal at the 1867 Paris World's Fair and inaugurated, it is said, by composer Anton Bruckner. This wave of donations reflects the attachment of Lorraine and its neighbours to a sanctuary that became, in the 19th century, a symbol of pride and Nancy identity.

Visiting the basilica and its square

The basilica generously opens its doors during the day: entry is free and you can wander in silence to admire the soaring nave, the delicate capitals and the light through the windows. Listed as a Historic Monument since 1999, it borders the charming Place Saint-Epvre, adorned with the equestrian statue of René II and lined with façades rebuilt in the 19th century in a Renaissance spirit. The district, a stone's throw from Place Stanislas and the Porte de la Craffe, invites you to extend your stroll through the cobbled lanes of the Old Town. A must-see for anyone discovering Nancy's heritage.

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