Saint-Gatien Cathedral

The cathedral of Saint-Gatien

A major and contemplative stop on the Tours audio-guided tour, the cathedral of Saint-Gatien will delight lovers of flamboyant Gothic. Its construction began in the thirteenth century and lasted about four hundred years.

Four centuries of construction

A first cathedral rose on this square around 340, built by the bishop of Tours. Burned and restored, it was consecrated again in the sixth century, then rebuilt and burned once more, suffering from the wars between Louis VII of France and Henry II of England in the twelfth century. From this long reconstruction came the present cathedral.

What to see

The finely worked facade resembles stone lace. The building is immense: one hundred metres long, thirty metres under the vaults and two towers of sixty-eight and sixty-nine metres. Inside, the stained-glass windows are remarkable. Enter the cathedral with respect and quiet, as an active place of worship.

Practical information

The cathedral of Saint-Gatien is in old Tours. Entry is generally free. Like any place of worship, it is visited with respect for silence and services; opening hours should be checked depending on the season.

How long did the construction take ?

The construction of the present cathedral spanned about four hundred years, from the thirteenth century.

What architectural style can be admired ?

The cathedral is a fine example of flamboyant Gothic, with a facade compared to stone lace.