Saint-Apollinaire Cathedral

Saint-Apollinaire Cathedral, the oldest monument in Valence

In the heart of the cathedral quarter, Saint-Apollinaire cathedral is the oldest monument in Valence. Consecrated in the eleventh century by Pope Urban II, it has crossed the centuries despite destruction. The Valence audio-guided tour stops here to go back to the city's medieval origins.

Consecrated by Pope Urban II

The cathedral was consecrated in the eleventh century by Pope Urban II, making it one of the oldest monuments in the region. The eleventh-century building was, however, largely destroyed and then rebuilt, in a Romanesque style faithful to its original plans. It remains the spiritual and historic heart of Valence.

What to see

The Romanesque building impresses by its plainness and its age, at the centre of the cathedral quarter. You admire its massive architecture, its bell tower and its atmosphere of contemplation. All around, the quarter keeps other treasures, including the neighbouring Pendentif, which complete the discovery of medieval Valence.

Practical information

Saint-Apollinaire cathedral lies in the centre of Valence, in the cathedral quarter, reachable on foot. A working place of worship, it can be visited with respect for services; entry is generally free, but hours vary with the season and celebrations, to be checked before coming.

When was Saint-Apollinaire cathedral consecrated?

It was consecrated in the eleventh century by Pope Urban II, which makes it the oldest monument in Valence.

Is the cathedral the original building?

The eleventh-century building was largely destroyed and then rebuilt in a Romanesque style faithful to its original plans.