La Croisette and the Town Centre
La Miséricorde Chapel
Situated in the Marché Forville, this Chapel was built in the 16th century, and has a beautiful glazed-tile bellcote. This serene and tranquil building is free of charge to enter during opening hours.
Notre-Dame des Pins Church
Built in 1865 by the architect Louis Vianey and positioned along the Boulevard Alexandre III, the church has been designed in an Eclectic style. Louis Vianey has integrated Romanesque, English Gothic and Italian styles to produce a fascinating piece of architecture. This church, as are many others is free to enter during opening hours.
Bellini Chapel
This pretty, sweet chapel of superb Mediterranean colouring, was built in 1894 by Comte Vitali, in an Italian Baroque style . Situated in the Fiorentina Park on the Avenue de Vallauris, the church is a little way from the centre of town but still worth a visit. Originally, the chapel was part of Villa Fiorentina built by Lord Julian Goldsmith a few years earlier. The chapel was later owned by Emmanuel Bellini (1904-1989) and used as a studio since 1953. Presently, it is now used as a museum dedicated to the painter’s work. Visits are only at the times and on the days the chapel is open. Further information can be gathered from the tourist office.
St. Georges Church
Another place of interest along the Boulevard Alexandre III is St. Georges Church. Built in 1887 by the English architect M. Blomfield, this church is one of the finest examples of English religious architecture. The church is beautifully built with a porch that rises into a bell tower and the interior has rich neo-Gothic decoration inside.
St. Michel Archange Church
Situated on the Boulevard Alexandre III , Impasse des Deux Eglises this church was built in 1894 by the architect Louis Nouveau. It is designed in the Russian style andhas a beautifully glazed tile roof and a typical onion style dome.
La Suquet (Old District)
L’eglise de la Castre
This museum resides inside the ancient medieval L’eglise de la Castre, an 11th century castle built by the Lérins monks. The museum was set up in 1877 and contains an array of archaeological findings from all over the world. Exhibits include instruments, a fine art collection, weapons and masks from places such as the South Sea Islands, Asia and Africa.
Outside is a shaded, calm and tranquil courtyard, perfect for those moments of reflection. The 11th century Tour de la Castre (tower) is worth the climb for the outstanding view of the terracotta rooftops, bustling streets and glittering water of the Bay of Cannes and port below.
The castle has also retained its Chapelle de St-Anne, a 12th century white stone Romanesque chapel and cisterns. This former castle chapel became the parish church and is integrated into the castle walls. Also not to be missed within this complex of beautiful buildings is the Notre-Dame de l’Espérance church. Built in 1648, after two hundred years of dispute between the monks of La Suquet and the town people, this Gothic styled building was built alongside the Chapelle de St-Anne. This church has free access during opening hours.
