Poitiers Cathedral
The imposing exterior of Poitiers Cathedral. Photo
Elizabeth.
West front with sculpture-filled portals. Photo
Paul Kentish.
The long nave, looking east from the entrance. Photo
Christophe Finot.
Altar. Photo
Christophe Finot.The Cathédrale St-Pierre (Cathedral of St. Peter) in Poitiers was begun in 1162 but not completed until much later. The twin-towered edifice is not regarded as among the best cathedral architecture in France, but it does have an attractive Gothic west front and some medieval stained glass.
History
Construction on the cathedral of Poitiers, which stands over the ruins of a Roman basilica, began in 1162 under the direction of Henry II (Plantagenet ) of England and Eleanor of Aquitaine. It was completed much later in a Gothic style.
What to See
The west front features a central rose window and three sculpture-filled portals. It is flanked by two stout, mismatched towers.
The interior has a light and airy feel and a long vista down the 89m (292 ft.) long nave. The windows contain some admirable 12th- and 13th-century stained glass.
The east window dates from the end of the 12th century and is said to have been donated by Henry and Eleanor themselves. It features scenes of the Ascension of Christ and the crucifixions of Christ and Peter.
Quick Facts
| Names: | Cathédrale St-Pierre; St. Peter's Cathedral; Poitiers Cathedral |
| Type of site: | Cathedral |
| Faith: | Roman Catholic |
| Status: | Active |
| Dates: | Founded 1162 |
| Architecture: | Romanesque and Gothic |
| Location: | Place de la Cathédrale, Poitiers, France |
| Phone: | 05-49-41-23-76 |
| Hours: | Daily 8am-7:30pm (until 6pm in winter) |
| Cost: | Free |
Location Map
Below is a location map and aerial view of Poitiers Cathedral. Using the buttons on the left, zoom in for a closer look or zoom out to get your bearings. Click and drag the map to move around. For a larger view, see our Poitiers Map or get our free Google Earth download.
Sources
- Darwin Porter, Frommer's France 2007 (October 2006).
- Cathedral of St. Pierre - Images of Medieval Art
- Poitiers, Neglected Masterpiece - Abelard.org
