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Versailles Cathedral: A Testament to Faith and History

Discover Versailles Cathedral: a historic landmark showcasing French Baroque architecture, religious art, and centuries of French history.

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Versailles Cathedral, or Cathédrale Saint-Louis de Versailles, is a Roman Catholic church that stands as a national monument of France. Built in the mid-18th century, it showcases French Baroque architecture and a rich history, initially serving as a parish church before becoming the seat of the Bishop of Versailles.

A brief summary to Versailles Cathedral

  • Monday 8:30 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am-8 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 8:30 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 8:30 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the day to fully appreciate the natural light illuminating the stained glass windows.
  • Check the official website for mass schedules and special events.
  • Explore the surrounding Saint-Louis neighborhood for its charming streets and historical atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Palace of Versailles, walk northeast along Place d'Armes, then turn right onto Rue de l'Indépendance Américaine. Continue onto Rue de Satory, then turn left onto Place Saint-Louis. The cathedral will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Versailles Château Rive Gauche train station, the cathedral is a 15-minute walk. Alternatively, take bus line B from the train station to the 'Hotel de Ville' stop, which is a short walk to the cathedral. A single bus fare costs €2.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from Versailles train stations. A taxi ride from Versailles-Chantiers train station to the cathedral costs approximately €10. The ride takes about 10 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Parking

    The 'Parking Cathédrale' is located at 4 Rue du Général Leclerc, directly at the foot of the cathedral. Hourly rates start at €1.50, with a daily rate of €11.50. This car park offers a convenient and secure parking solution in the city center.

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Discover more about Versailles Cathedral

The Versailles Cathedral, formally known as Cathédrale Saint-Louis de Versailles, is more than just a religious building; it's a landmark that encapsulates the history and culture of Versailles. Construction began in 1743, with Louis XV laying the first stone, and the church was consecrated in 1754. Jacques Hardouin-Mansart de Sagonne, grandson of the renowned architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart, designed the cathedral in the French Baroque style. Originally built as a parish church, it became the cathedral of Versailles in 1802, following the Concordat of 1801. This agreement between Napoleon Bonaparte and Pope Pius VII re-established the Catholic Church in France and led to the creation of new dioceses. The cathedral's elevation marked a significant milestone, making it the central church of the diocese. The cathedral's architecture features a Latin cross layout, a grand façade with Corinthian columns, and an interior adorned with frescoes, sculptures, and stained glass windows. The high altar, designed by Michel-Ange Slodtz, is a masterpiece of marble with intricate carvings. The cathedral also houses religious artifacts, including a relic of Saint Louis. During the French Revolution, the cathedral was repurposed as a Temple of Abundance. Despite being defaced, it was later restored to its original purpose in the early 19th century. The stained-glass windows, created by Lobin workshops in Tours and Gsell and Laurent in Paris, date back to 1853.

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