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Cathedral · Tours, Centro-Vale do Loire
Cathédrale Saint-Gatien de Tours
Gothic cathedral of Tours, dedicated to São Gaciano, the city's first bishop, featuring a set of 13th-century stained glass windows and the Psalette cloister beside it.
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-Gatien de Tours
Cathédrale Saint-Gatien is Tours' cathedral, dedicated to São Gaciano (Gatien), the city's first bishop. Construction of the present church began in the 13th century and extended over about three centuries, which explains the mix of Gothic at the choir with a flamboyant-style façade and towers finished in the Renaissance.
The highlight is the stained glass. The chapels of the ambulatory and the high choir windows contain 13th-century medallion glass, one of the most complete ensembles of that period in Europe. The two transept rose windows complete the collection.
Beside the cathedral is the Psalette cloister, with Gothic and Renaissance arcades, open to visitors at specific times. The cathedral stands in the Saint-Gatien quarter, the city's original nucleus, atop the ancient Roman Caesarodunum.
The cathedral has been listed as a historic monument since 1862 and remains in use for Masses.
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
About 45 minutes; 1 hour if you include the Psalette cloister.
Best time
On a sunny day, in the morning or mid-afternoon, when the light brings out the stained glass. Avoid Mass times if you want to move freely around the nave.
How to get there
On foot from Gare de Tours, about 10 minutes, heading north via rue Jules Simon or rue Lavoisier. It is roughly a 15-minute walk from Place Plumereau.
Tip
Bring a small pair of binoculars or use your phone's zoom to see details of the high choir windows. The Psalette cloister has a separate entrance; check opening times before you go.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cathédrale Saint-Gatien de Tours
What is special about the Tours Cathedral?
The set of 13th-century stained glass in the ambulatory chapels and the high windows of the choir, as well as the two rose windows of the transept.
Is there a charge to enter the cathedral?
Entry to the cathedral nave is free. The Psalette cloister has a separate entrance fee; check before you go.
Is the cathedral near the station?
Yes, about a 10-minute walk from Gare de Tours.