Standing over the town of Annecy is the Basilique de la Visitation. This imposing modern church is far removed in location and style from the churches of the old town.
The walk up to the basilique is not difficult, a little winding, but provides beautiful diversions along the way as the landscape around the town emerges into view.
La visitation appears in the distance.
The mountains separate Geneva from Annecy.
Lake Annecy is visible from the basilique; views in other directions are blocked by trees.
Walking back down a different route felt like traveling back in time.
The basilique itself appears unstaffed. The monastery behind presumably ensures the basilique never goes too long without someone casting an eye over the site, but while we visited no-one official seemed to be around.
The chapel hides a larger monastery behind and to the right of the tower.
Basilique de la Visitation’s tower leaves an impression
Built between 1909 and 1930, the basilique feels unlike any other church we visited.
During our visit a tour group posed and performed a song on these steps; odd.
Looking back from the altar reveals a touch of colour above the grand entrance.
Modern lights hang from the ceiling.
Without staff in the chapel, no candles adorn the site. Instead the votive candles have been replaced with electronic alternatives. The replacements are a strange sight but from a distance look equivalent.
Electronic candles replace open flames.
Base of an electric votive candle.
Top of an electric votive candle; the light flickers within the flame mould.
Annecy has quite a history with regard to religion and its role as a seat of religious power. Geneva is close by and Annecy claimed a reactionary anti-reformation stance.
We pass Sanctuaire Saint Bonaventure on our morning runs to the park. It sits starkly positioned next to a shiny glass building. The church is large but feels hemmed in by modern buildings on either side.
