Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
Spain
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Italy
Luxembourg
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Church · Cahors, Occitânia
Cathédrale Saint-Étienne de Cahors
The 12th-century cathedral, one of the largest domed churches in France, with a sculpted Romanesque portal, a Gothic cloister and the relic of the Sainte Coiffe. World Heritage.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Cathédrale Saint-Étienne de Cahors
The Cathedral of Saint-Étienne is in the centre of Cahors and was built from the 12th century onwards. It is one of the largest churches in France with domes on pendentives: the nave is covered by two large domes, creating a wide interior space without central columns. The Gothic choir was added later, blending the two styles.
The north portal, Romanesque, has a tympanum with the Ascension of Christ, surrounded by scenes from the life of Saint Stephen. The west façade, more closed, looks like a fortress, with towers and few windows.
Next to the cathedral is the cloister, from the late Gothic period, with arches and sculptures, and linked to it are chapels and rooms of the former canons' residence. The cathedral houses the Sainte Coiffe, a relic that, according to tradition, covered Christ's head in the burial.
The cathedral is part of the UNESCO World Heritage as a monument of the routes to Santiago in France.
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
45 minutes to 1 hour, including the cloister.
Best time
In the morning, before the summer heat, or in the early afternoon. On Wednesday and Saturday mornings the market in the square in front usually livens the area; check the days.
How to get there
It is in the centre of Cahors, about a 15-minute walk from the station and Pont Valentré.
Tip
Notice the paintings on the first dome, showing the prophets, and be sure to visit the cloister beside the nave.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cathédrale Saint-Étienne de Cahors
What is the Sainte Coiffe?
A relic kept in the cathedral that, according to tradition, covered Christ’s head at the burial.
Why does Cahors cathedral have domes?
It follows a south-west French style, with domes on pendentives that cover the nave without central columns.
Can the cloister be visited?
Yes, it is beside the cathedral, with arches and sculptures from the late Gothic period. Check the opening times.