Video = D #Biolay
GB: 43 B.C. #Lugdonum became the capital of Gallia, called the 2nd Rome, and all nationalities settled there including Christians. Their persecution began in 177, they were arrested and executed, among others Pothin, the 1st bishop.
In 1168, on remainders of the former Forum Trajan (#Fourviere = old forum), the first #church was built on the "Hill of Prayers" originally dedicated to Mary, later to St. Thomas.
In 1643 when the plague raged, the city council vowed to pay homage to Holy Mary with an annual thanksgiving procession to Fourvière Chapel in case of a quick end. Lyon was indeed spared and this procession of mayors and city councillors still takes place on September 8 (Nativity of the Virgin Mary).
Ever since #pilgrimages of foreigners increased and the chapel had to be rebuilt and extended several times. In 1830 the bell tower of the chapel was demolished due to dilapidation and later replaced by a new, higher tower, the top of which was decorated with the golden bronze statue of Our Lady.
However, its consecration on December 8, 1852 (the Immaculate Conception) was marred by a storm and the planned fireworks display had to be cancelled. As a result, the citizens of Lyon lit their windows with thousands of candles - the origin of the city festival "Fete des Lumieres" celebrated every year.
During the Franco-Prussian #war of 1870/71, the then pledged Cardinal promised the #Virgin Mary to build a #basilica if Lyon was not entered by the enemy. The wish came true and in 1872 the foundation stone of the new church was laid north of the old chapel. = 150years ago!
