Notre-Dame-de-l’Immaculée-Conception Cathedral

A Cathedral at the Heart of Antibes’ Old Town

In the winding streets of Antibes’ old town, just steps from the ramparts and the sea, stands Notre‑Dame‑de‑l’Immaculée‑Conception, the city’s cathedral and one of its most cherished landmarks. Its soft ochre façade, typical of Provençal Baroque style, welcomes visitors into a place where centuries of faith, art, and Mediterranean history quietly intertwine. As you approach, the cathedral seems to rise naturally from the old stones of Antibes, blending perfectly with the warm colors and intimate atmosphere of the historic center.

From Roman Temple to Christian Sanctuary

The story of the cathedral begins long before its Baroque façade was built. Archaeological traces reveal that the site once hosted a Roman temple dedicated to Diana, the goddess of the hunt. Over time, as Christianity spread across the region, the temple gave way to a church, which evolved through the Middle Ages into the seat of the Bishop of Antibes. Though the bishopric later moved to Grasse, the cathedral retained its spiritual importance, standing as a witness to the city’s long and layered past.

Baroque Beauty and Sacred Art

The cathedral’s current appearance dates largely from the 18th century, when it was rebuilt in a graceful Provençal Baroque style. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and serene, with soft light filtering through the nave and illuminating the vaulted ceilings. One of the cathedral’s treasures is the altarpiece of Saint Mary Magdalene, painted by the great Provençal artist Louis Bréa in the early 16th century. This masterpiece, with its delicate colors and expressive faces, is a rare and precious example of early Renaissance art in the region.

A Living Monument of Antibes

Walking through the cathedral, you can sense how deeply it is woven into the life of Antibes. Generations have been baptized, married, and blessed within these walls. The building has survived wars, earthquakes, and centuries of change, yet it remains a peaceful refuge in the heart of the bustling old town. Its bells still ring out over the rooftops, echoing across the narrow streets and reminding visitors of the city’s enduring spiritual heritage.