Collégiale Notre Dame de l'Assomption

National heritage

Commissioned by the Count of TENDE, Honoré Lascaris near the end of the 15th century upon the remains of a Roman church, destroyed by the criminal fire set up by a Catalan mercenary, Juan Lopez, who was paid to kill Honoré. It was consecrated by Monseigneur Fregoso, Bishop of VINTIMILLE, in 1518. The Renaissance style entrance, in green Tende stone was only finished in 1562. Representing the 12 apostles with Christ in the middle, detail reproduced on the Saint Jean altar piece

Within, a Carlo Serrassi organ is still in working order. It is one of the « Vallee des orgues de la Roya » An original furniture dates from 1673. 10 altars and altarpieces, from the 17th century, sometimes gold leaved (re-golded in 1866 by Joseph Parodi). Compagnies and brotherhood are dedicated to one or more Saints: Sacré Cœur, St Eloi (patron saint of donkey drivers), Ste Agathe, Ste Brigitte, Ste Lucie… The left hand chapel leads the way to the catacombs housing Tende’s Nobility. You will also find the St Eloi altar, St Patron of muletiers. A deep blue starry sky adorns the entire 19th century central vault.

The canopy above the central altar was draped in hangings for ceremonies. The oval medallion hangings depict Virgin Mary’s life.

The domed Lombard square bell tower was completed in 1462, the Lascaris funeral chapel gate and tomb stone date from the 15 century;
18th century Baroque décor, wooden statues, 17th century triptyque elements given by Charles-Emmanuel II de Savoie, 18th century olive wood polychrome Pieta, kneeling donor statue, back to the public (unique), procession cross, 15th century monstrance.
Open every day 9h to 18h in the summer and 9h to 17h winter. Guided tours for groups or individuals.