Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul Cathedral, Poitiers

Saint-Pierre Cathedral, in Poitiers

Saint-Pierre Cathedral is the most imposing monument of Poitiers, a vast Gothic building linked to Eleanor of Aquitaine. The Poitiers audio-guided tour stops here, with respect, to evoke this major sanctuary, famous for its stalls and its great organ.

The great Gothic cathedral of Eleanor

Saint-Pierre Cathedral is the most imposing monument of Poitiers, by its vast dimensions. It was built from the twelfth century, on the remains of an older religious building, at the initiative of the bishop of the town. Tradition has it that its construction was supported by King Henry II Plantagenet and his wife Eleanor of Aquitaine, who reigned then over the Poitou and a large part of Western Europe. The cathedral is a fine example of the Western Gothic style, called Angevin or Plantagenet, with its characteristic domed vaults. Inside, you admire its vast luminous nave, its old stained-glass windows, including a great stained glass of the Crucifixion among the oldest of France, as well as its remarkable carved wooden stalls, among the oldest of the country, and its great organ. A major sanctuary and a jewel of the heritage, Saint-Pierre Cathedral is discovered with respect.

What to see

You admire, with respect, the most imposing monument of Poitiers, the vast Western Gothic cathedral with domed vaults, built from the twelfth century with the support of Henry II Plantagenet and Eleanor of Aquitaine, its luminous nave, its great stained glass of the Crucifixion among the oldest of France, its carved wooden stalls and its great organ. Saint-Pierre Cathedral is a major sanctuary of Poitiers. It is a stop to be discovered with respect.

Practical information

Saint-Pierre Cathedral lies in the historic centre of Poitiers, reachable on foot. A place of worship, it can be visited with respect for services; entry is generally free, but hours vary with celebrations. It is best to check them before coming and to respect the sacred character of the place.

Who supported the construction of Saint-Pierre Cathedral of Poitiers?

According to tradition, King Henry II Plantagenet and his wife Eleanor of Aquitaine, who reigned then over the Poitou; this vast Western Gothic cathedral, built from the twelfth century, keeps a great stained glass of the Crucifixion and stalls among the oldest of France.