Religious Sights in Arcachon — 3 of Our Favourites

A second was built and it was buried under the sand in 1721. Finally, a third was built in 1722 and this is the one we see today. The current chapel is known as "Chapel of the Sailors' - many have flocked here from all over on pilgrimages as well as many tourists.

The church faces the sea, where you can look out to see the Sailors Cross which was erected in 1902. It was repeatedly damaged or destroyed but still serviceable. The current cross is the identical copy made in 1980 to that of 1902, which had been accidentally shot.

Already in 1722, there was a rustic red wooden cross at this location. It was customary when trawlers or sailors were leaving the harbour to greet the passage of three blows horn or siren to seek the protection of Mary. On their return, they were able to return to port without hitch, they came then to the church to thank her.

The first chapel was built in 1855 and it was then extended in the early 1900's in the Neo-Roman style that we see today. The bell tower was eventually finished in 1927 and sits 42m tall with a statue of the Sacred Heart at its peak.

The church is also remarkable for the quality of its frescos, which are visible when you visit the interior. Originally built as a chapel to the convent of Dominicans, it was designed by Bordeaux architect Louis Garros.

In 1928 the church was enlarged as it became the main parish church for the district. Much of the building was renovated an restored in 1993.