Sainte-Marie Cathedral

Sainte-Marie Cathedral

A major and contemplative stop on the Bayonne audio-guided tour, Sainte-Marie Cathedral raises its spires above the old town. Its first stone was laid in the thirteenth century, on the site of a former Romanesque church ravaged by fire.

A jewel of Rayonnant Gothic

In Rayonnant Gothic style, the cathedral draws on Reims for its plans and Chartres for its stained-glass windows. Listed in 1998 as a UNESCO World Heritage site, not for its architecture but as a major place of pilgrimage, it is part of the routes of Santiago de Compostela. Its two spires, added in the nineteenth century, rise to eighty metres.

What to see

Adjoining the cathedral is one of the largest cloisters in France, dating from the fourteenth century. This remarkable religious ensemble is a must in Bayonne. Enter the building with quiet and respect for the place of worship to admire the stained-glass windows and the serenity of the cloister.

Practical information

Sainte-Marie Cathedral is in the heart of the old town of Bayonne. Like any active place of worship, it is visited with respect for silence and services; hours should be checked depending on the season with the parish.

Why is the cathedral a UNESCO site ?

As a major place of pilgrimage, under the routes of Santiago de Compostela, since 1998.

What is found adjoining the cathedral ?

One of the largest cloisters in France, dating from the fourteenth century.