Built in the 11th-12th century, it was named after Trophime, the first bishop of Arles. The coronation of Frederick Barbarossa took place here in 1178. St Trophime used to be a cathedral, however, in 1801, when the Bishopric moved to Aix-en-Provence, St. Trophime was reclassified as a parish church. In 1882, it was raised to a minor basilica by Pope Leo XIII.

The church has been carefully restored and the 12th-century portal facing “Place de la Republique” is a masterpiece of Provencal Romanesque architecture. Carved relief sculptures surround the portal depicting people in chains on their way to hell on the right and the righteous on their way to the saints in heaven on the left. The overall theme of the portal artwork is the Last Judgment. Above the entrance is a traditional tympanum showing Christ surrounded by Evangelistic symbols. Life-size statues of saints flank the entrance including the patron saints of the city, St. Stephen and St. Trophime. The artwork within the church includes a 4th-century sarcophagus. Other highlights are the Cloisters adjoining the church with 12th-14th-century galleries in Romanesque and Gothic styles. The church has an impressive square three-storey bell tower.

Together with other Roman-era structures in Arles, the church has UNESCO World Heritage status. Rooms leading from the Cloisters are regularly used for temporary exhibitions. St. Trophime holds regular religious services.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org