Saint-Vincent Church

The church of Saint-Vincent

In the Bastide Saint-Louis, the Carcassonne audio-guided tour leads you to the church of Saint-Vincent, a fine example of Languedoc Gothic. An active place of worship, it is discovered with respect and offers, from its bell tower, one of the finest panoramas over the town.

A 14th-century church

The church was built, or rather rebuilt, during the 14th century, on the site of an earlier building already dedicated to Saint Vincent. In the 16th century, its tower served as a watchtower during the Wars of Religion and took several cannon shots. Turned into an artillery foundry during the Revolution, it was quickly returned to worship in 1795, restored in 1871 and listed as a Historic Monument in 1907.

What there is to see

The church has a wide nave and an imposing vault, typical of southern Gothic. Its octagonal bell tower rises to fifty-four metres and is climbed by more than two hundred steps: from the top, the panorama over Carcassonne and the City is striking. The climb, which is charged for, is done with respect for the place of worship the building remains.

Practical information

The church of Saint-Vincent is in the Bastide Saint-Louis. Visiting the building is generally free outside services; the climb of the bell tower is charged for and subject to hours that vary with the season. An active place of worship, the church requires proper dress and silence.

Can you climb the bell tower of Saint-Vincent ?

Yes, the climb of the bell tower, fifty-four metres high, is possible for a fee, by more than two hundred steps, for a panorama over the town.

What is the style of the church of Saint-Vincent ?

It is a fine example of Languedoc Gothic, or southern Gothic, with its wide nave and imposing vault.