Cloître de la Psalette: A Gothic-Renaissance Transition

The Cloître de la Psalette, located on the north side of the Cathédrale Saint-Gatien in Tours, presents a remarkable architectural ensemble that reflects the religious and intellectual life of the cathedral chapter. Constructed from 1442 to 1524, the cloister showcases a transition from Flamboyant Gothic to Renaissance styles. The cloister is organized around a quadrangular courtyard, enclosed by three vaulted galleries. The west gallery features eight bays on the ground floor and seven on the upper level, while the north gallery has ten bays, and the east gallery contains five. A spiral staircase, located at the northeast corner, leads to the upper floors, drawing comparisons to the staircase at the Château de Blois. This staircase is a prime example of Renaissance architecture in the Loire Valley. Historically, the upper floors housed the scriptorium and library, essential for the chapter's manuscript production and preservation. The name 'Psalette' originates from the chanting of psalms in the adjoining music school. Today, visitors can admire the contemporary stained-glass windows by Max Ingrand, installed in the 1960s, which adorn the windows facing the garden. The cloister also hosts temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year.