On the initiative of His Grace Leuilleux, Archbishop of Chambéry, the largest bell in France was cast as a contribution from the province of Savoy to the construction of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Montmartre. Donations for the basilica began on January 29, 1889, and a contract was signed on October 17, 1889, with the Paccard Brothers (Georges and Francisque) of Annecy-le-Vieux. The bell was cast on May 13, 1891, and was christened “Frances-Margaret of Sacred Heart” on November 20, 1895. It produces a low high C note and was delivered upon the completion of the campanile in 1898.

Originally mounted as a free-standing tower, the bell was reinstalled as a back-standing tower in 1947 due to the excessive pressure it was placing on the belfry. In June 1999, it was classified as a historical monument. Despite being made over a century ago, the “Savoyarde” remains the largest bell in France and is considered one of the most beautiful bells in the world.

Although its real name is “Frances-Margaret of Sacred Heart,” it is better known as the “Savoyarde.” Instead of participating in a national subscription during the construction of the basilica, the people of Savoy chose to distinguish themselves by offering the bell, which was the largest in France at that time. It’s important to note that the annexation of Savoy to France in 1860 was still relatively recent. Therefore, the “Savoyarde” symbolizes both allegiance to France and a personification of Savoyard pride and regional identity.