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Église Sainte-Croix: A Romanesque Masterpiece in Bordeaux

Discover the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of Église Sainte-Croix, a Romanesque church in the heart of Bordeaux, France.

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The Église Sainte-Croix, or Church of the Holy Cross, is a Roman Catholic church in Bordeaux, France, showcasing stunning Romanesque architecture. Originally a Benedictine abbey founded in the 7th century, the current church was built in the late 11th and early 12th centuries. Its intricate facade, serene interior, and historical significance make it a captivating destination for tourists.

A brief summary to Église Sainte-Croix de Bordeaux

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the stained glass windows and intricate interior details.
  • Check the church's timetable for religious services if you wish to attend.
  • Explore the nearby École des Beaux-Arts, housed in the former Benedictine abbey.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Gare Saint-Jean, Bordeaux's main train station, Église Sainte-Croix is easily accessible via tram. Take tram line C or D and disembark at the Sainte-Croix stop, which is a short walk to the church. A single tram ticket costs €1.70 and is valid for one hour, allowing transfers between trams and buses.

  • Walking

    From the Place de la Bourse, walk along the Quai Richelieu, then turn onto Cours Alsace et Lorraine. Continue straight, then turn right onto Place Pierre Renaudel. The church will be on your left. The walk is approximately 20 minutes.

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Discover more about Église Sainte-Croix de Bordeaux

Église Sainte-Croix de Bordeaux stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural elegance. Formerly the church of a Benedictine monastery, its origins trace back to the 7th century. The original abbey was destroyed multiple times, once by the Arabs around 730 and again by the Normans in the mid-9th century. Reconstruction was initiated in 970 by Count William V The Good, with the current Romanesque church built in the 11th and 12th centuries. The church's facade is adorned with decorative sculptures, including depictions of greed and lust. Renovated in the 19th century by Paul Abadie, the church features a nave with 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. Inside, soft light filters through stained glass windows, illuminating religious artworks and sculptures. The church also houses an 18th-century organ by Dom Bedos de Celles, considered a masterpiece. Today, the former Benedictine abbey serves as the home of the École des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux.

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