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Basilique Saint-Sernin: A Romanesque Masterpiece

Explore the Romanesque masterpiece of Basilique Saint-Sernin, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Toulouse's rich history.

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The Basilique Saint-Sernin in Toulouse is one of the largest and finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe. Built to honor Saint Saturnin, the first bishop of Toulouse, this basilica has been a significant pilgrimage site since the 11th century. Its stunning architecture, intricate sculptures, and historical importance make it a must-see attraction.

A brief summary to Basilique Saint-Sernin de Toulouse

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a Sunday morning to experience the vibrant flea market held in front of the basilica.
  • Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the basilica's history, architecture, and art.
  • Don't miss the crypt, where you can view the relics of various saints (small entrance fee applies).
  • Check the basilica's website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and special events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Capitole de Toulouse, walk north along Rue du Taur. Continue onto Place du Taur, then turn left onto Rue du Doyen-Gabriel-Marty. Turn right onto Place Saint-Sernin. The Basilique Saint-Sernin will be directly ahead. The walk is approximately 8 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The Basilique Saint-Sernin is accessible via the Metro lines A, B, and L8. The closest metro stations are Capitole (8-minute walk) and Jean Jaurès (10-minute walk). Several bus lines (27, 29, 362, L14, L9) also stop near the basilica. A single metro/bus ticket costs €1.80.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Toulouse. A taxi ride from the Toulouse-Matabiau train station to the Basilique Saint-Sernin typically costs between €8 and €12 and takes approximately 3 minutes.

  • Parking

    Several parking options are available near the Basilique Saint-Sernin. The Indigo Arnaud Bernard parking garage is located directly across from the basilica. Other nearby parking options include Indigo Victor Hugo and Q-Park Basilique Saint-Sernin. Parking rates typically range from €2 to €4 per hour. Mobypark also offers parking spots near the basilica.

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Discover more about Basilique Saint-Sernin de Toulouse

The Basilique Saint-Sernin, or Basilica of St. Sernin, stands as a testament to Romanesque architectural grandeur in Toulouse, France. Constructed between the 11th and 13th centuries, the basilica was built to house the relics of Saint Saturnin (Sernin), the first bishop of Toulouse, who was martyred around 250 AD. As you approach the basilica, the warm hues of its brick and stone exterior immediately capture your attention, giving Toulouse its nickname, "La Ville Rose" (the Pink City). The basilica's exterior is characterized by its elegant chevet, a series of chapels radiating from the apse, and its distinctive octagonal bell tower, a hallmark of Toulouse architecture. The bell tower rises 67 meters above the city. Inside, five vaulted naves converge towards the choir and a gilded wooden and marble canopy. The interior's impressive size and double side aisles create a sense of awe. The basilica features 260 Romanesque capitals and a treasury of relics, reflecting its historical importance as a pilgrimage site on the route to Santiago de Compostela. The crypt houses the remains of numerous major Catholic saints and a thorn believed to be from the Crown of Thorns. Two notable doorways, the Porte des Comtes and the Porte Miègeville, showcase elaborate Romanesque sculptures. The Porte Miègeville is particularly renowned for its tympanum depicting the ascending Christ surrounded by angels. The basilica's construction began around 1070 under architect Raymond Gayrard, with Pope Urban II consecrating the choir in 1096. Although mostly completed by 1118, modifications and restorations continued through the centuries. In the 1990s, the city undertook a "de-Viollet-le-Duc-ization" to restore the building's original appearance. Today, Basilique Saint-Sernin remains an active church and a UNESCO World Heritage site, drawing visitors from around the world.

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