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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Basilica Notre-Dame de Brebières, located in Albert in the Somme, is a neo-Byzantine religious building built between 1885 and 1897 under the impulse of Anicet Godin, parish priest-dean of the city. It replaces a 17th century parish church that has become too small to accommodate the faithful, many because of the industrial revolution. Inauguration in 1895, it was erected as a minor basilica by Pope Leo XIII, who called it the "Lourdes du Nord". Its architecture, designed by Edmond Duthoit, combines Byzantine, Moorish and Syrian influences, with a 76-metre bell tower topped by a golden statue of the Virgin, by Albert Roze.

During World War I, the basilica was severely damaged. In 1915, a shell struck the dome, bending the statue of the Virgin, which remained miraculously in balance. This event gave rise to the legend: "When the Virgin of Albert falls, the war will end. In April 1918, during the Battle of the Kaiser, the basilica was completely destroyed, and the statue collapsed. His photograph, now emblematic, is broadcast worldwide by soldiers.

Reconstructed in the same way between 1927 and 1931 by Louis Duthoit, the son of Edmond, the basilica found part of its original decor. The mosaics, stained glass and sculptures are recreated by artists such as Albert Polart, Jacques Gruber and Albert Roze. The Golden Virgin was resettled in 1929, and the basilica remains a symbol of resilience and faith. In 2016, she hosted a commemorative concert for the centenary of the Battle of the Somme.

The building is distinguished by its eclectic style, blending Byzantine, Syrian and Italian elements, with a brick facade and a richly decorated interior. The bell tower, inspired by minarets, dominates the city, while mosaics and stained glass, works by master glassmakers and Mosaïsts, adorn the interior spaces. The basilica also houses organs rebuilt after 1918 and a liturgical treasure, including silver crowns offered to the Virgin.

Classified as a historical monument in 2004, the Basilica Notre-Dame de Brebières embodies both an exceptional architectural heritage and a collective memory linked to the conflicts of the 20th century. Its history, marked by destruction and reconstruction, makes it a place of pilgrimage and commemoration, deeply rooted in Picardy identity.

Future

Just on the right side of the basilica, is the entrance to the Museum Somme 1916 or Museum of the Abris.

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