The basilica's architect, Victor Laloux, also designed the Gare d'Orsay, which is now the Musée d'Orsay in Paris.
The current dome statue of Saint Martin was added in 1925 to mirror the silhouette of the original medieval structure.
The tomb located in the crypt is a modern reconstruction containing original relics discovered during 19th-century excavations.
The base of the Tour Charlemagne still retains fragments of Romanesque masonry from the 11th century.
Saint Martin of Tours is widely considered the patron saint of soldiers and is famous for cutting his cloak in half to share with a beggar.
The basilica is built in the shape of a Latin cross, though its decorative elements remain heavily Byzantine.
Excavations in the late 19th century revealed the foundation plan of the massive medieval basilica, which was once one of the largest in Christendom.
The Basilique Saint-Martin de Tours is a neo-Byzantine structure built between 1886 and 1924 to replace the medieval basilica destroyed during the French Revolution. It serves as a major pilgrimage site housing the tomb of Saint Martin, the fourth-century Bishop of Tours. Designed by architect Victor Laloux, the basilica features a large copper dome topped with a statue of the saint. The interior is characterized by its distinct Byzantine influence, utilizing high arches and ornate mosaics. The site includes the remaining Tour Charlemagne and Tour de l'Horloge, remnants of the original 11th-century collegiate church. Pilgrims specifically visit the crypt to venerate the relics of Saint Martin. The current basilica was built on the exact site of its predecessor to maintain historical continuity. It functions as a place of active worship and quiet reflection for both locals and travelers.
The view from the Place de Châteauneuf looking up toward the dome of the basilica.
Walk around the exterior to see the Tour Charlemagne and Tour de l'Horloge, which are separate from the main basilica building.
Visit the underground crypt level specifically to see the location of the saint's tomb.
Use the quiet garden space between the basilica and the street for a view of the architecture away from the crowds.
Do not mistake the separate medieval towers for the entrance to the main basilica; the entrance is through the modern neo-Byzantine structure.
Maintain a quiet tone; remove headwear upon entering; modest dress is expected as it is an active place of worship.
