CATHÉDRALE SAINT-LAZARE-D’AUTUN
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Cathédrale Saint-Lazare d'Autun, with its 80-meter-high spire, offers musical tours in summer.
At the gateway to the Morvan, the ancient Roman Augustodunum is dominated by the imposing Saint-Lazare cathedral, considered one of the finest examples of Cluniac Romanesque architecture. Built in the 12th century and located on the Compostelle pilgrimage route from Vézelay, the site was mainly used by pilgrims who came to visit the relics of Saint Lazarus. Unfortunately, his tomb is no longer visible, having been destroyed in 1766. In the 15th century, Cardinal Rolin had an 80-metre-high spire added to replace the Romanesque bell tower, which had been destroyed by lightning a few years earlier. The tympanum of the central portal (1135), sculpted by Gislebertus and depicting the Last Judgment, is a true masterpiece. Burgundian Romanesque art is at its best, with sculpture taking over the architecture. The sixty or so historiated capitals illustrating biblical scenes, such as the Flight into Egypt and Eve in bed, bear witness to this.
The tympanum, the most remarkable feature of Saint-Lazare Cathedral, displays its restored sculptures. The whole has been meticulously cleaned using micro-abrasion and lasers, revealing traces of polychromy. The cathedral's interior has also been completely renovated, restoring the nave and transept to their former glory. In summer, the "Cathédrale en lumière" (Cathedral in Light) offers tours with a musical backdrop, highlighting the architectural features. A must-see when visiting Autun.
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