Background

Cathédrale Saint-Pierre: A Gothic Masterpiece in Beauvais

Experience the soaring heights and unfinished beauty of Beauvais Cathedral, a testament to Gothic ambition.

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The Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Beauvais, or Beauvais Cathedral, is an unfinished High Gothic masterpiece located in Beauvais, France. Known for its incredibly high vaulted ceilings, the cathedral stands as a testament to both architectural ambition and the challenges of medieval engineering.

A brief summary to La Cathédrale Saint-Pierre

  • Monday 10 am-6:15 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6:15 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6:15 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6:15 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6:15 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6:15 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6:15 pm

Local tips

  • Entry to the cathedral is free, allowing you to explore its magnificent interior without any cost.
  • Take your time to admire the stained glass windows, which date back to the 13th and 16th centuries and depict various biblical scenes.
  • Don't miss the astronomical clock, a marvel of 19th-century engineering with intricate details and moving figures.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Beauvais city center, the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre is easily accessible on foot. Orient yourself towards the main square, Place Jeanne Hachette, and walk north along Rue Saint-Pierre. The cathedral will come into view, dominating the skyline. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on your starting point in the city center. Entry is free and via the Basse-Œuvre.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by train at Gare de Beauvais, take the Corolis line 6 bus towards 'Cathédrale'. The bus will drop you off close to the cathedral. Alternatively, from the train station, it's approximately a 20-minute walk. Exit the station and follow signs towards the city center, then follow the walking directions above. A single bus ticket costs around €2.

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Discover more about La Cathédrale Saint-Pierre

The Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Beauvais is a Roman Catholic church in Beauvais, France, and the seat of the Bishop of Beauvais, Noyon, and Senlis. Construction began in 1225, with the ambition of creating the largest Gothic cathedral in France. The result is a soaring, awe-inspiring structure that showcases the High Gothic architectural style. One of the most remarkable features of Beauvais Cathedral is its height. The choir reaches a height of 48.5 meters (159 feet) under the vault, making it the highest Gothic choir in the world. This ambitious design, however, contributed to structural problems throughout its history. In 1284, just twelve years after completion, part of the choir vault collapsed, and in 1573, the central tower, which briefly made the cathedral the tallest structure in the world at 153 meters, also collapsed. Despite these setbacks, Beauvais Cathedral remains a stunning example of Gothic artistry. The interior is filled with light streaming through magnificent stained-glass windows from the 13th and 16th centuries. The south portal showcases a blend of Gothic and early Renaissance styles, featuring ornate doorways and intricate carvings. The cathedral also houses a complex astronomical clock built in 1866, featuring 90,000 parts and 52 dials displaying astronomical and ecclesiastical calendars. Although the nave was never completed, the existing structure, including the choir and transept, is open to visitors.

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