CATHÉDRALE SAINT-ÉTIENNE

The cathedral of Saint-Etienne is one of the first churches of Gothic architecture in Christendom (along with the basilica of Saint-Denis). Built from 1130 onwards, its façade was completed at the end of the 12th century; its bell tower was completed four centuries later. As for its north tower, it was never completed! The use of an innovative concept (the ribbed vault) makes it the prototype of the great cathedrals of this style, which inspired many religious buildings: thus, the choir of the abbey church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés in Paris resembles very much that of Sens, and during the rebuilding of that of the cathedral of Canterbury (after its fire in 1174) it is Guillaume de Sens who directed the building site. The magnificent nave, the 15th century transept and the beautiful stained glass windows from the end of the 12th to the 17th century are well worth a visit. As for the chapels, they host the Saint-Louis altar (in memory of the marriage of the king of France celebrated here in 1234), as well as the tomb of the Dauphin, son of Louis XV, and his wife who demanded to rest there. To the south of the choir, a staircase connects with the archiepiscopal palace of the 16th century, while the synodal palace (at the angle of the south side of the façade) was built in the 13th century. Finally, did you know? This superb cathedral was included in the very first list of buildings classified as historical monuments, as early as 1840. This list was drawn up by the Inspector of Historic Monuments, the famous writer Prosper Mérimée.

Note that, if it can be visited independently, the cathedral is an integral part of the Museums of Sens which are attached to it. Thus, it is by them that one will be able to visit the rich room of the Treasure that this building shelters. And for good reason, you will be able to discover an impressive collection of tapestries, fabrics of which the majority are Coptic, Persian and Byzantine. But also works of silverware, enamels, ivories. And liturgical vestments including the chasuble of St. Ebbon (seventh century) and the priestly vestments of Thomas Becket (twelfth century) whose stained glass window tells the story of the end of his life.

Finally, don't miss either: every weekend in the summer, a sound and light show is proposed on the façade of the monument. "Lumières de Sens" is one of the major events of the season, which is also held at the Porte de Sens, in Villeneuve-sur-Yonne. If you pass by there, do not miss it!