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Église Sainte-Croix: A Romanesque Masterpiece in Bordeaux

Explore Bordeaux's oldest church, a Romanesque abbey with a stunning facade and rich history in the heart of the Sainte-Croix district.

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The Église Sainte-Croix, or Church of the Holy Cross, is a Roman Catholic church in Bordeaux, France. Originally a Benedictine abbey founded in the 7th century, the current Romanesque church was built in the late 11th and early 12th centuries. Its striking facade and serene interior make it a must-see landmark.

A brief summary to Église Sainte-Croix de Bordeaux

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the stained-glass windows and the interior's architectural details.
  • Take time to examine the sculptures on the facade, which depict various symbolic and historical scenes.
  • Check the church's website or local listings for information on concerts or events featuring the Dom Bedos organ.
  • Explore the surrounding Sainte-Croix neighborhood, known for its blend of history, culture, and vibrant atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Gare de Bordeaux Saint-Jean, exit the station and walk straight along Rue Charles Domercq. Continue onto Cours de la Marne, then turn right onto Place Pierre Renaudel. The Église Sainte-Croix will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Bordeaux city center, take tram line C or D to the Sainte-Croix station. The church is located directly next to the tram stop. A single ticket costs €1.80 and is valid for one hour of travel, allowing transfers between trams and buses.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Bordeaux. A short trip from the city center or Gare de Bordeaux Saint-Jean to Église Sainte-Croix will typically cost between €8 and €15, depending on traffic and demand.

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Discover more about Église Sainte-Croix de Bordeaux

Église Sainte-Croix de Bordeaux, a former Benedictine abbey, stands as a testament to Bordeaux's rich history and architectural evolution. Founded in the 7th century, the original abbey was destroyed multiple times before being rebuilt in the late 11th and early 12th centuries in the Romanesque style. The church's history is intertwined with the urban development of the Sainte-Croix district, once a village outside the city walls. The exterior of Église Sainte-Croix features a Romanesque facade adorned with decorative sculptures. The design is inspired by the Saintongeais style. The facade has a central arched doorway framed by blind arcades. The west facade has undergone significant restoration, including the addition of a second bell tower in the 19th century. Inside, the church has a nave and four aisles, a transept with apses, and a polygonal apse. The nave stretches 39 meters in length, while the apse reaches a height of 15.30 meters. The church also boasts an 18th-century organ crafted by Dom Bedos de Celles, considered a masterpiece. The stained-glass windows fill the interior with light, adding to the spiritual ambiance. Today, Église Sainte-Croix is a living parish church and a classified historical monument. Visitors can explore the church's architecture, admire its artwork, and experience its tranquil atmosphere.

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