Sainte Rita Church (Annonciation Church)

17th-century Baroque church in Vieux Nice

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Officially named the Annonciation church, it is popularly known as the Saint Rita church, the patron saint of impossible causes. It is one of the oldest churches in Nice, originally built in the 10th century.

The building which stands today is from the 17th century, rebuilt in 1677 to make it larger. In 1793 it was closed and turned into a salt storehouse, reopened in 1806 as a church.

It has a grand interior, quite a surprise when you compare it with the rather dull exterior, reconstructed in 1836 and never finished. The chapel dedicated to Saint Rita has frescoes depicting the life of the saint, and is the centre of the celebrations in her honour on May 22nd, when roses are blessed to aid in the recovery of the sick.

Visitor comments

"The Baroque style interior of this Old Town church is almost over the top. It is so ornate as to seemingly cover every square inch. The paintings alone are worth seeking out this church." - Trip Advisor
"When walking in Vieux Nice, turning from one alley into another small lane, I found this Chapel of Sainte-Rita by chance.. Just out of curiosity I had a look inside. And you wouldn’t expect it from the unassuming plain exterior but this church has a really beautiful baroque interior. Well worth a visit. Have a look at the photos." - Trip Advisor
"Located in the old town, this chapel had such a peaceful atmosphere and it was lovely to sit there and look at the wall paintings in the coolness." - Trip Advisor