Notre-Dame de la Garde (Our Lady of the Guard) stands guard high above Marseille and is known affectionately as la Bonne Mère.

Its role as protectress covers the traditional role of blessings and cures, but also extends to care over travellers.

The following close up shot clearly depicts this role along with the sumptuous interior decoration.  The proximity and light also reveal that a bit of attention from a feather duster would be in order.

As you would expect from a church that looks out to sea, there is also much emphasis on boats.

To read more about this magnificent church, see Inside Notre Dame.

Linked to the Daily Prompt: Close.