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Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne de Dijon: A Gothic Masterpiece

Explore Dijon's Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, a stunning Gothic cathedral with a rich history and impressive architecture.

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The Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne de Dijon, a 13th-century Gothic cathedral dedicated to Saint Benignus, dominates Dijon's skyline. Its Romanesque crypt, the remains of a three-story rotunda, and soaring spire offer a glimpse into centuries of religious and architectural history.

A brief summary to Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne de Dijon

Local tips

  • Visit the Romanesque crypt to see the remains of the three-story rotunda and the martyrium of Saint Bénigne.
  • Note the contrast in color between the nave and the choir, which was restored to its original ochre color.
  • Attend a mass to experience the cathedral's acoustics and appreciate its beauty as a place of worship.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne is located in the city center of Dijon at Pl. Saint Bénigne, making it easily accessible on foot from many points in the city. From Place des Ducs de Bourgogne, walk east along Rue de la Liberté, then turn left onto Rue des Forges, followed by a right onto Place Saint Bénigne. The cathedral will be on your left. This should take about 10 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Dijon has an efficient public transport network consisting of buses and trams. The Divia network serves the entire metropolitan area. To reach the cathedral, take a tram or bus to a stop in the city center, such as République or Darcy. From there, it's a short walk to the cathedral. A single ticket costs €1.70 and is valid for one hour on all lines.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Dijon, with a taxi rank at the train station. You can also call Taxi Radio Dijon to order a cab. A taxi ride from the train station to the cathedral will cost approximately €17-39, depending on traffic and time of day. The pickup price is €2.30, with a price per km ranging from €0.97 to €2.90.

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Discover more about Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne de Dijon

Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne de Dijon is a testament to Dijon's rich history, standing as a Catholic church since the 13th century. Dedicated to Saint Benignus, a 2nd-century martyr, the cathedral has evolved through various architectural styles, with its current Gothic form dating back to a reconstruction between 1280 and 1325. Consecrated in 1393, the cathedral replaced earlier basilicas and an abbey, reflecting the city's enduring religious significance. The cathedral's architecture showcases Gothic features, including pointed arches, intricate stone carvings, and a 93-meter spire added in 1896. Inside, visitors can explore the Romanesque crypt, the remains of a rotunda built around 1000, and the martyrium of Saint Bénigne. The contrasting colors between the nave and choir, the latter intentionally restored to its medieval ochre hue, create a visually striking experience. Over the centuries, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne has faced challenges, including fires, a collapsing tower, and looting during the French Revolution. Despite these setbacks, the cathedral has been restored and recognized as a historic monument, with ongoing efforts to preserve its architectural and historical value. Today, it stands as a symbol of Dijon, attracting visitors to marvel at its grandeur and learn about its storied past.

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