Chapelle St-Pierre

Villefranche-sur-Mer


Villefranche was a favourite of Jean Cocteau (1889–1963), who sought solace here in 1924 after the death of his companion Raymond Radiguet. Several years later, Cocteau convinced locals to let him paint the neglected, 14th-century Chapelle St-Pierre, which he transformed into a mirage of mystical frescoes. Scenes from St Peter’s life are interspersed with references to Cocteau's cinematic work (notably the drivers from Orpheus) and friends (Francine Weisweiller, whose Villa Santo Sospir in St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Cocteau also decorated).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Villefranche-sur-Mer attractions

1. Musée Volti

0.1 MILES

Displays voluptuous bronzes by Villefranche sculptor Antoniucci Volti (1915–89).

2. La Citadelle

0.13 MILES

Villefranche's imposing citadel is worth visiting for its impressive architecture. Built by the duke of Savoy between 1554 and 1559 to defend the gulf,…

3. Plage des Fourmis

0.91 MILES

Backed by palm trees, this clean, centrally located beach with gentle waves is a quintessential Beaulieu destination.

4. Plage de Passable

0.94 MILES

On the peninsula's western side, this part-public, part-private beach is especially popular in late afternoon as a place to watch the sunset.

5. Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

0.94 MILES

An over-the-top, belle-époque confection, this villa was commissioned by Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild in 1912. She was an avid art collector…

6. Tennis Club de Beaulieu

0.96 MILES

This prestigious tennis club, founded at the turn of the 20th century, hosts numerous events on its eight clay courts, including a riveting ITF…

7. Villa Grecque Kérylos

1.1 MILES

This magnificent dwelling is a reproduction of a 1st-century Athenian villa, complete with baths, stunning mosaic floors and furniture such as dining…

8. L'Olivaie

1.21 MILES

Filled with ancient olive trees, this public park is a relaxing spot to take a break.

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