The Saint-Roch district, a true village in the heart of Nice, is celebrating the 80th anniversary of its boulevard. But, as everyone knows, every village has a church at its center… in this case, it is the Saint Roch church, the soul of this historic district.
This church was built following a vow made by the population after the plague of 1631. The dedication was thus fitting, as Saint Roch is the patron saint protecting against plagues and epidemics. The first chapel was completed in 1660 by Joseph Pisano. It is located in the heart of vegetable gardens, as the Roquebillière district is primarily agrarian, sparsely populated with scattered houses here and there. Already in the 17th century, we see a population growth that is confirmed and intensified in the 18th century.
The bishop decided to establish this district as a parish due to the increase in inhabitants. Until then, people had to descend to the Sainte Réparate Cathedral to attend services, and the path was often impassable due to the whims of the Paillon.
It was decided to enlarge the Saint Roch chapel, and construction began in 1771. The new building was consecrated and opened for worship in 1790. Saint Roch did not have time to organize as a parish, as the revolution crossed the Var in 1792 and French troops closed all places of worship in Nice.
It was not until 1803, after the Concordat, that Monsignor Jean Baptiste Colonna d’Istria fulfilled the will of his predecessor Charles Valperga de Maglione and established the Saint Roch church as a parish. The district then took on the name of this religious building.
The Saint Roch church was enlarged and restored in 1892. A new restoration between 1980 and 1990 highlighted its façade and frescoes. Its centered plan, typical of Piedmont and Liguria, is noteworthy.
There are two examples: the sanctuary of Vicoforte near Mondovi and the Saint Maurice basilica in Imperia. At the time of the construction of this church, Nice was under the sovereignty of the House of Savoy. This church was saved by war!
This may be surprising, but in a 1936 urban planning scheme, its destruction was planned. Three years later, war broke out, the plan was abandoned, and Saint Roch still stands in the middle of its square in a district that has greatly changed. This church is a place of contemplation and meditation amid the urban hustle and bustle.
Thierry Jan
