Saint-Trophime Cathedral

Saint-Trophime cathedral, a Romanesque jewel of Provence

The Arles audio-guided tour stops you before Saint-Trophime cathedral, which is approached with quiet respect. The Christian community of Arles is one of the earliest whose trace is found in Gaul: the presence of a bishop is attested there as early as the year 254.

The most remarkable Romanesque ensemble in Provence

The cathedral and its cloister are considered the most remarkable Romanesque ensemble in Provence. Now a parish church, the building was the seat of an archbishopric until the Revolution. The cloister, erected in the twelfth century, is listed as World Heritage, like much of the monuments of Arles.

What there is to see

The most impressive is undoubtedly the sculpted portal, whose particularly rich tympanum displays an abundance of details. Inside and in the cloister, with respect for silence, you admire the delicacy of the Romanesque sculpture and the serenity of the place. Saint-Trophime cathedral is one of the great witnesses to the spiritual history of Provence.

Practical information

Saint-Trophime cathedral is on Place de la République, in the heart of Arles. An active place of worship, the church can be visited with respect for silence and services; the cloister can be visited according to its own hours, sometimes included in the city pass. Opening times may vary with the season.

How long has Christianity been present in Arles?

The Christian community of Arles is one of the oldest in Gaul: the presence of a bishop is attested there as early as the year 254.

What makes the cathedral valuable?

The cathedral and its twelfth-century cloister form the most remarkable Romanesque ensemble in Provence, listed as World Heritage. Its sculpted portal is particularly admired.