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Cathedral of Saint Julian of Le Mans: A Gothic Masterpiece

Discover Le Mans Cathedral: A stunning blend of Romanesque & Gothic architecture, featuring exquisite stained glass & rich history in the heart of Le Mans.

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The Cathedral of Saint Julian of Le Mans, a Catholic church in Le Mans, France, is a stunning example of Gothic-Roman architecture, showcasing a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles built from the 6th to the 15th centuries. Dedicated to Saint Julian, the city's first bishop, the cathedral boasts a rich collection of stained glass and impressive flying buttresses.

A brief summary to Cathedral of Saint Julian of Le Mans

  • Monday 9 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-7 pm
  • Friday 9 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Explore the cathedral's crypt to see the tombs of Saint Julian and Charles of Anjou.
  • Don't miss the fresco of the Angel Musicians in the Chapel of the Virgin.
  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the stained glass windows.
  • Take time to walk around the exterior and admire the architecture and flying buttresses.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Cité Plantagenêt, the old town of Le Mans, the cathedral is easily accessible on foot. Navigate through the cobbled streets towards Place Saint Michel, where the cathedral is located. The walk is short and offers views of the historic architecture.

  • Public Transport

    From the Le Mans train station, take tram line T1 towards 'Espace Culturel'. Get off at the 'Mendès-France' stop, which is a short walk to the Cathedral. Follow the signs towards Place Saint Michel. A single tram journey costs approximately €1.50.

  • Car

    If driving, navigate to Place Saint Michel. The closest parking is at Parking des Jacobins, a short walk from the cathedral. Parking fees at Parking des Jacobins are approximately €1.50 for the first hour and €1.00 for the evening or night. The car park is located at the foot of the T2 tramway line.

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Discover more about Cathedral of Saint Julian of Le Mans

The Cathedral of Saint Julian of Le Mans, known locally as Cathédrale Saint-Julien du Mans, stands as a testament to centuries of architectural evolution and religious significance. Dedicated to Saint Julian, the first bishop of Le Mans who brought Christianity to the area around the 4th century, its construction spanned from the 6th to the 15th century. The result is a captivating fusion of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Originally dedicated to Saints Gervais and Protais, the first cathedral was replaced in 1060 under Bishop Vulgrin. The current nave reflects a Romanesque basilica form, characterized by round-arched arcades and aisles. Following a fire in 1134, Bishop Guillaume de Passavant initiated a rebuilding program, incorporating stone vaults and flying buttresses. The capitals of the nave piers feature carvings of acanthus leaves, vegetation, animals, and human figures. In 1217, the cathedral chapter expanded eastward, constructing a larger choir completed in 1254. The choir's design, influenced by Bourges and Chartres cathedrals, includes elongated chapels and decorative flying buttresses. Inside, the cathedral impresses with its high vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows, some dating back to the 13th century, depicting biblical scenes and the lives of saints. The fresco of the Angel Musicians, painted in the Chapel of the Virgin, is a highlight, featuring 47 angels playing various instruments. The crypt, dating back to the 11th century, houses the tombs of Saint Julian and Charles of Anjou. The cathedral also has a prehistoric menhir, a 4.55-meter tall sandstone monolith, on its western flank. Relocated in 1778, it has been a historical monument since 1889.

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