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Cathédrale Saint-Gatien: A Gothic Masterpiece in Tours

Explore the Cathédrale Saint-Gatien in Tours, a stunning Gothic masterpiece showcasing centuries of architectural and artistic evolution.

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The Cathédrale Saint-Gatien, a Roman Catholic cathedral in Tours, France, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, showcasing the evolution of the style from the 13th to the 16th centuries. Dedicated to Saint Gatianus, the first bishop of Tours, the cathedral stands as a testament to the city's rich religious history and artistic heritage.

A brief summary to Cathédrale Saint-Gatien

  • 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

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the stunning stained glass windows.
  • Take a guided tour to learn about the cathedral's rich history and architectural details.
  • Explore the Cloître de la Psalette for a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the cathedral's past.
  • Check the official website for mass schedules and special events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours, walk east along Rue Lavoisier. The cathedral will be on your left in about 5 minutes. There are no costs associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    The Fil Bleu public transport network serves the cathedral. Several bus lines stop near the cathedral, including lines 11, 14, 2, 53, and 54. The nearest bus stops are Victoire (3 min walk), Fac Tanneurs (5 min walk), and Nationale (6 min walk). Tram line A also stops at Nationale. A single Fil Bleu fare costs €1.50 and is valid for one hour, including connections.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Tours. A short taxi ride from the Tours train station to the cathedral typically costs around €11, but prices may vary depending on the time of day and traffic. The base fare is €2.00, with an additional €1.80 per kilometer.

  • Driving

    If driving, follow signs to the city center and the cathedral. Parking is available on Rue Fleury and Rue de la Psalette, with numerous paid spaces, including some for disabled parking. The Parking Place des Turones is another option, a 3-minute walk from the cathedral. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around €2-3 per hour.

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Discover more about Cathédrale Saint-Gatien

Cathédrale Saint-Gatien, located in the heart of Tours, is a magnificent cathedral that exemplifies the evolution of French religious architecture from the 12th to the 16th centuries. Built upon the remains of the Gallo-Roman city of Caesarodunum, the cathedral has been a significant religious site for centuries. The current cathedral, replacing three earlier churches, was constructed between 1170 and 1547. Its architecture showcases a blend of styles, with Romanesque bases and buttresses on the towers, Rayonnant and Flamboyant Gothic ornamentation, and Renaissance-style tower tops. The north tower was completed in 1507, while the south tower was finished between 1534 and 1547. Inside, the cathedral boasts exceptional 13th-century stained glass windows and contemporary glasswork by Gérard Collin-Thiébaut. The grand choir, rebuilt in the second half of the 13th century with the support of Blanche de Castille and her son Louis IX, is considered one of France's most beautiful. The cathedral also houses the tomb of two children of Charles VIII and Anne de Bretagne, crafted in Carrara marble in the Renaissance style. Visitors can explore the recently restored Cloître de la Psalette, dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, accessible through the cathedral. This cloister is the only one remaining among the five cathedrals in the Centre region. The cathedral's western facade features a rich Flamboyant-style decor, with a large rose window and intricately designed portals.

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