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Cathedral · Saint-Malo, Bretanha
Cathédrale Saint-Vincent de Saint-Malo
Former Romanesque and Gothic cathedral in the center of the Intra-Muros, heavily damaged in 1944 and restored until 1972, with modern stained glass windows.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cathédrale Saint-Vincent de Saint-Malo
The Cathédrale Saint-Vincent is located in the middle of the Intra-Muros, at the highest point of the old town. It is dedicated to Saint Vincent of Zaragoza and combines a Romanesque nave with a Gothic choir.
The church became a cathedral in 1145, when the bishopric seat was moved from the neighboring Alet to Saint-Malo. The bishopric was abolished during the Revolution in 1790, and since then it has been known as the former cathedral. It underwent alterations from the 13th to the 18th centuries, including the neoclassical façade and the domed tower.
The bombings of August 1944 left it severely damaged. Restoration took place from 1944 to 1972, and the windows were fitted with modern stained glass that gives the interior a colored light.
It has been a listed historic monument since 1910 and is one of the seven cathedrals of the Tro Breiz, the traditional pilgrimage that links the founding saints of Brittany.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
20 to 30 minutes.
Best time
During the day, outside of mass times. On sunny days the colored windows are more striking. Check opening times before you go.
How to get there
It is in the center of the Intra-Muros, about a 5-minute walk from the Porte Saint-Vincent.
Tip
Look for the plaque in the nave floor marking the spot where Jacques Cartier, the navigator born in Saint-Malo, received a blessing before departing for Canada.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cathédrale Saint-Vincent de Saint-Malo
Is it still a cathedral?
No. The bishopric of Saint-Malo was abolished in 1790, but the church retains the name cathedral.
Is there an entrance fee?
No. It is an active church; avoid mass times.
Why are the stained-glass windows modern?
Because the originals were lost in the 1944 bombings. The new ones were made during the restoration, completed in 1972.