EPISCOPAL DISTRICT

In the Middle Ages, the episcopal district already corresponded to the historic heart of the city. Today, it is a striking demonstration of the harmonious synthesis between ancient, medieval and gothic architecture that Beauvais is known for. Over the last ten years, the bishop's quarter has been completely transformed after undergoing major renovation work. The aisles have been widened and well cleared, allowing a better appreciation of the dizzying dimensions of the cathedral.

The forecourt, then the south facade of the Saint-Pierre cathedral have been restored. You can now admire the splendid flamboyant gothic style façade and its 11 m diameter rose! The interior is also remarkable with the carillon clock which still works despite its great age (it dates from the 14th century) and the astronomical clock with a 90,000 piece mechanism. Note that people with reduced mobility now have access to the cathedral thanks to a lift integrated into the Basse-Œuvre. On the forecourt facing the cathedral are the visible remains of the Caesar Tower, which once housed the cathedral's bells during its construction. A cloister dating from the 14th and 15th centuries is located to the north-west of the cathedral.

Notre-Dame de la Basse-Œuvre is the first known cathedral in Beauvais. Only a third of the nave remains, as it was partly destroyed to build Saint-Pierre Cathedral, but it remains a precious testimony of the year 1000 and above all it is the opportunity to see this unique example of two cathedrals living together harmoniously! Just next door, the foundations of the chapel, which dates back to the 11th century, are still visible.

The Musée départemental de l'Oise also bears witness to the rich history of Beauvais: the building was built in the 12th century against the ancient rampart, then the entrance was fortified in the 14th century. Seat of the Prefecture from 1811 to 1823, the Episcopal Palace then became the seat of the Bishopric and then the Court House in 1846. Today, it is being renovated to accommodate more rooms. You can discover a rich collection of carved stone and wood from the Middle Ages, Beauvaisis ceramics and paintings from the Renaissance to the 20th century.

The National Tapestry Gallery at the Cathedral's chevet offers a striking contrast with its modern, horizontal appearance. It hosts temporary exhibitions around this ancestral know-how that has existed for 350 years in Beauvais!

Opposite, the collegiate church of Saint-Barthélemy has also just been renovated. This building, founded in 1037, was built along the ancient surrounding wall, but only the choir can still be seen after the bombings of June 1940 and various fires.