Background

Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille: A Modern Gothic Marvel

Discover Lille's architectural ambition at the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille, a captivating blend of Gothic and modern design.

4.3

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille in Lille is a unique blend of Neo-Gothic and modern architectural styles. Construction spanned from 1854 to 1999, resulting in a striking edifice that stands as a testament to Lille's history and faith. Its modern façade, completed in 1999, features a 'crown of light' made of alabaster and glass.

A brief summary to Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral

Local tips

  • Visit during the day to witness the stunning interplay of light and shadows created by the cathedral's translucent marble façade.
  • Explore the crypt to see the tomb of Cardinal Liénart and contemporary religious art.
  • Check the cathedral's schedule for concerts and cultural events.
  • Combine your visit with a walk through Vieux-Lille to admire the city's historic architecture.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille is located in Vieux-Lille and is easily accessible on foot from most points of interest in the city center. It's a 10-minute walk from the Grand Place and 12 minutes from Gare Lille Flandres. From Lille Europe station, it is an 18-minute walk. Enjoy the charming streets of Lille as you approach the cathedral.

  • Public Transport

    Lille's efficient public transportation system makes reaching the cathedral simple. Take Metro lines 1 or 2 to the 'Rihour' station, which is a short walk from the cathedral. Multiple bus lines also serve stops close to the cathedral. A single ticket costs €1.80 and is valid for 1 hour on the entire network. A day pass costs €5.30.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Lille and offer a quick way to reach the cathedral. A taxi from Lille Europe train station to the cathedral takes about 4 minutes and costs approximately €5-€7. From Lille Airport to the city center, the average taxi fare is €25 during the day and €30 at night. Keep in mind that taxi prices in Lille are regulated, with a minimum fare of €8 per trip.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available in nearby garages, though it can be challenging in the Old Town. Consider using services like Mobypark or Onepark to find affordable and convenient parking locations. Park-and-Ride facilities are also available throughout the Lille metropolitan area, providing access to public transport. Be aware of Lille's low-emission zone and the requirement for a Crit'Air sticker.

Unlock the Best of Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral

Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille, the cathedral of Lille, is a prominent landmark in the heart of the city. Its construction, beginning in 1854 and spanning nearly a century and a half, showcases a unique blend of Neo-Gothic and modern architectural elements. The cathedral stands on the site of Lille's ancient feudal mound, where historians believe the Counts of Flanders had their keep built. The cathedral's design sought to combine the grandeur and spiritual significance of the great Gothic cathedrals of Europe with a contemporary vision suited to the modern age. The most striking feature is its façade, often referred to as the “Treille” façade, made up of 110 translucent marble plates that allow light to filter through, creating an interplay of shadows and illumination that changes throughout the day. Architects Pierre-Louis Carlier and Peter Rice, artist Ladislas Kijno, and sculptor Georges Jeanclos contributed to the façade's design. Inside, the cathedral's spacious interior is flooded with natural light, shining through an impressive array of stained-glass windows. The crypt, located beneath the main church, houses the tomb of Cardinal Liénart, the first Archbishop of Lille, and features contemporary artwork. The cathedral regularly hosts concerts and houses a Sacred Art Center in its crypt.

Popular Experiences near Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral

Popular Hotels near Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral

Select Currency