Nantes - Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul
Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul
The Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, also known as Nantes Cathedral, is a Roman Catholic church located in Nantes, a city in western France. The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Peter and Saint Paul.
Click here to see where the cathedral is located on Google Maps
The building of the cathedral started in the 15th century and was not completed until the 19th century, which is a typical time frame for the construction of many medieval cathedrals, spanning several hundred years. This timeline means that the cathedral showcases a blend of Gothic and neo-Gothic architectural styles, with the latter phases of construction reflecting the styles of the 19th century.
One of the most striking features of Nantes Cathedral is its façade, which is characterized by its two towers standing 63 meters tall.
The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive, with the nave reaching a height of approximately 37.5 meters, which makes it one of the tallest naves in France.
In addition to its architectural significance, the cathedral also houses several important artefacts.
The tomb of Francis II, Duke of Brittany and his wife Marguerite de Foix, crafted by Michel Colombe and Jean Perréal, is one of the finest examples of late medieval sculpture.
The cathedral is also home to a large number of historical stained glass windows and several notable organs.
There are many chapels inside the cathedral, some 33 we believe. Here are a few of them:
Like many historic structures, the cathedral has faced challenges over the centuries. It was damaged during World War II and again by a fire in 2020, but restoration efforts have sought to preserve this important symbol of Nantes' history and culture.
Click here to access the cathedral’s website (in French only)