Saint-André Church

The church of Saint-Andre

A contemplative stop on the Bayonne audio-guided tour, this fine church in the shape of a Latin cross was built in the nineteenth century, under the reign of Napoleon III. The architects Hippolyte Durand and Hippolyte Guichenne gave it a neo-Gothic style very fashionable at the time.

Vanished spires

Look at the two towers: they were once topped with two spires seventy-four metres high. Because of unstable ground, the district having developed on former marshes, they were demolished in 1901 and replaced a few years later by the two current bell towers.

What to see

Inside, the church houses an organ given by Napoleon III himself, listed as a historic monument, as well as paintings by famous Bayonne painters such as Leon Bonnat, whose works are also presented in the museum that bears his name. Enter this place of worship with quiet and respect for silence.

Practical information

The church of Saint-Andre is in the Petit Bayonne district. Like any active place of worship, it is visited with respect for silence and services; hours should be checked depending on the season with the parish.

Why did the church's spires disappear ?

The unstable ground, the district being built on former marshes, led to their demolition in 1901.

What does the church of Saint-Andre hold ?

An organ given by Napoleon III, listed as a historic monument, and paintings by Bayonne painters.