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Nantes Cathedral

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description Nantes Cathedral Overview

Nantes Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, is a Roman Catholic Gothic cathedral located in Nantes, France. Its construction spanned over four centuries, having been initiated in 1434 and finally completed in 1891. The building exhibits distinct Gothic architecture and contains notable historical artifacts, including the Renaissance-era tomb of Francis II, Duke of Brittany, and his wife Margaret of Foix. The interior is noted for its high vaulted ceilings and the use of white tuffeau stone, though the structure faced severe damage and flooding following a 2020 fire.

help Nantes Cathedral FAQ

What is the full name of Nantes Cathedral?

The cathedral's full name is the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul) of Nantes, France. It is a Gothic-style cathedral that serves as the seat of the Bishop of Nantes.

How long did it take to build Nantes Cathedral?

Construction of the current Gothic cathedral began in 1434 and was not completed until 1891, a span of 457 years. This extraordinarily long construction period resulted in a building that blends different phases of Gothic architectural style.

Who is buried in Nantes Cathedral?

Nantes Cathedral contains the tomb of Francis II, Duke of Brittany, and his wife Margaret of Foix, a notable Renaissance-era monument sculpted by Michel Colombe in the early 16th century. The tomb is considered one of the finest examples of French Renaissance sculpture.

Was Nantes Cathedral damaged by fire?

Nantes Cathedral experienced a significant fire in 1972 that destroyed much of the roof, requiring extensive restoration work over many years. In 2020, another fire caused damage to the interior, including the destruction of stained glass windows, though the stone structure itself remained largely intact.

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