The Chapelle de la Miséricorde stands on the Cours Saleya in Vieux Nice, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southern France. It was built in the 17th century for a brotherhood of penitents, the Confrérie de la Miséricorde, and it is often described as one of the finest baroque chapels in the city. From the outside, its facade on the Cours Saleya is discreet and easy to miss among the market stalls and restaurants. The interior is the highlight, with an oval nave decorated in rich baroque style, including coloured marble, gilded stucco, painted ceilings, and a decorated altar. The chapel is rarely open, which adds to its interest. Listings report access on Tuesday afternoons, between about 2:00PM and 5:30PM, and closure in July and August, but times differ by source, so visitors should confirm with the Nice tourist office via explorenicecotedazur.com before going. Entry is free, and a visit takes 20 to 30 minutes. When it is open, the chapel is quiet and rarely crowded, but queues can form for the small space. The best time for a visit is a Tuesday afternoon, combining it with a walk through the Cours Saleya, the nearby Palais Lascaris and the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate. The chapel is reached from the tram stops at Opéra-Vieille Ville, followed by about four minutes on foot. Because opening is irregular, visitors should treat the visit as a bonus and not rely on being able to go in. The exterior can still be seen at any time, and the market on the Cours Saleya provides a lively setting.
| Admission | Adult Free (~$0) · Child Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Not regularly open. Listings report Tuesday afternoons (between about 2:00PM and 5:30PM) and closure in July and August; times differ by source, so confirm with the Nice tourist office via explorenicecotedazur.com |
| Typical visit | 20-30 minutes |
| Best time | Tuesday afternoon, if open |
| Getting there | Tram T1 or T2 to Opéra-Vieille Ville, then 4 minutes on foot to Cours Saleya |
| Address | Cours Saleya, 06300 Nice, France |
Location
Cours Saleya, 06300 Nice, France
43.6951, 7.2761 View on map
Highlights
- Baroque oval nave with gilded stucco
- Painted ceilings and decorated altar
- Seldom-open chapel with a quiet atmosphere
- Free entry when open
- Location on the Cours Saleya
Tips for visiting
- Confirm opening times with the tourist office before going, as access is irregular.
- Aim for a Tuesday afternoon, if open.
- Expect closure in July and August.
- Keep voices low, as it is a religious building.
- Combine with the Cours Saleya and Palais Lascaris.
When to visit
A Tuesday afternoon is the likeliest time to find it open. It is typically closed in July and August.
Accessibility
The chapel is small, with steps at the entrance, which may limit wheelchair access. Visitors should enquire before travelling.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
A visit takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Is entry free?
Yes, entry is free when the chapel is open.
When is the chapel open?
Listings report Tuesday afternoons and closure in July and August, but times differ, so visitors should confirm with the tourist office.
Is photography allowed?
Rules vary, so visitors should ask on site and avoid flash.