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Cloître de la Psalette: A Gothic-Renaissance Transition

Explore the serene Cloître de la Psalette in Tours, a captivating blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture and a haven of tranquility.

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Nestled against the Cathédrale Saint-Gatien in Tours, the Cloître de la Psalette offers a serene escape and a glimpse into the architectural transition from Gothic to Renaissance styles. Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, this cloister once served as a vital center for the cathedral canons, housing a scriptorium and library.

A brief summary to Cloître de la Psalette

  • Wednesday 9:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during off-peak hours for a more peaceful experience and better photo opportunities.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the Cathédrale Saint-Gatien for a comprehensive sightseeing experience.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Take advantage of a guided tour to uncover the secrets and history of this architectural gem.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Place Jean Jaurès in the city center, walk southeast on Rue Nationale towards Rue de la Préfecture. Continue until you reach the Cathédrale Saint-Gatien. The entrance to the Cloître de la Psalette is at 7 Rue de la Psalette, adjacent to the cathedral. Allow approximately 15 minutes for the walk.

  • Public Transport

    From Tours train station (Gare de Tours), take bus line 5 towards 'Tours - Beaux-Arts'. Get off at the 'Cloître de la Psalette' stop. The cloister is a short walk from the bus stop, through the Cathedral of Saint Gatien. A single Fil Bleu fare costs €1.50 and is valid for one hour.

  • Parking

    If driving, exit the A10 at exit 21 towards the city center, following signs for 'cathédrale'. Numerous parking lots are available near the cathedral. On-street parking is available Monday to Saturday, 9:00-20:00, costing €6.00 for 1 hour and €12.00 for 2 hours. Be aware that parking regulations apply to residents as well.

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Discover more about Cloître de la Psalette

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.

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