Eglise Saint-Michel (Saint Michael's Church), Villefranche-sur-Mer (must see)

Saint Michael’s Church is a Baroque Italianate church dating back to the 1750s. However, its religious history goes back much further, as it was built on the site of a 14th-century church, which itself replaced a 13th-century priory. The church has been a significant place of worship for centuries and was officially designated a historic monument in 1990.

The building follows a Latin cross plan, featuring a two-bay nave with round oculi above the side aisles. These aisles lead to a modest transept and a semicircular apse, which houses the choir. The church’s elegant Baroque design makes it a prominent architectural landmark in the town.

Inside, one of its notable treasures is a wooden statue of San Rocco, the patron saint of dog trainers. Another highlight is its magnificent 18th-century organ, considered one of the oldest working organs in the region.

The organ was built in 1790 by the Grinda brothers, well-known organ builders from Nice. Its ornate wooden case, crafted by Jean Antoine Mangiapan, was classified as a historic object in 1971. The church remains a cultural and historical gem, drawing visitors for its artistic beauty and sacred atmosphere.