Clermont-Ferrand Cathedral: reviews and practical tips

+20
recos
4.4/5 5 reviews
place de la victoire, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
place de la victoire, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
Cathédrale de Clermont-Ferrand

Visiting the Clermont-Ferrand Cathedral

In the city of Clermont-Ferrand, located in the Auvergne region, stands the gothic Clermont-Ferrand Cathedral. It has occupied its perch on the hill in the center of the old medieval town since the 13th century.

History

The first religious structure on this site dates back to the 5th century. It once housed the relics of Saint Vital and Saint Agricol.

In 760, the cathedral was destroyed by Pepin the Short, then restored by Bishop Adebert starting in 764. The Normans destroyed the building again in 915. Later, Bishop Etienne 2, brother of the Viscount of Clermont, decided to rebuild it in the Romanesque style. This new cathedral was dedicated to the Virgin Mary in 946.

In 1248, Bishop Hugues de la Tour commissioned a new project to raise a gothic cathedral in place of the Romanesque building. The construction was entrusted to Jean Deschamps, an experienced architect who also worked on the cathedrals of Narbonne and Limoges.

Financial issues caused the project to drag on for years. Pierre Deschamps, his son, took over until 1325. The structure was finally completed in 1340 by an unknown master builder.

The Clermont-Ferrand Cathedral

The building is constructed from Volvic stone, which gives it a dark and distinct appearance.

The cathedral features one of the three finest collections of medieval stained glass in France, created between the 13th and 15th centuries.

It also contains an impressive collection of wall paintings dating from the 12th to the 15th centuries.

Finally, the cathedral houses two organs. A large organ dating from 1877 is listed as a historical monument, and a choir organ was built 10 years later.

This religious landmark remains a significant repository of history and art.

Opening hours

Every day from 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM and from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Hours are indicative and subject to change

Reviews of Clermont-Ferrand Cathedral

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Summary of 5 reviews
4.4/5
Average rating
+20
Total recommendations

Ratings by visit type

With family
4.2
As a couple
4.6
With friends
4.3

Avygeo ranking

#175
in the world
#159
in Europe
#82
in France
#2
in Clermont-Ferrand

An intriguing monument

I really do not like Clermont-Ferrand at all, but if there is one thing to see, it is definitely the cathedral. This magnificent Gothic building really stands out in the urban landscape, with its two spires and the dark color of its volcanic stone. I found it one of a kind. The interior houses some very beautiful stained glass, frescoes, and a large organ, all within a hushed atmosphere. Unfortunately, it is no longer possible to go up into the tower to admire the view.

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A dark but magnificent cathedral!

I have seen plenty of cathedrals. But the one in Clermont-Ferrand is unique. If you are passing through the city, you cannot miss it, with its volcanic stone that gives it an appearance that is both dark and stunning. The interior of the building is just as pretty, with chapels and stained glass windows that are very well maintained. If you like churches, go for it, you will not regret it!

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A mysterious cathedral you absolutely have to see

Before arriving in Clermont-Ferrand, I stopped at a lookout point to observe the city. It is quite surprising to see how the cathedral stands out darkly from the rest. It is built with volcanic stone from Volvic, and that is the main reason I stopped there. It is just as impressive, and still just as dark, when you get up close. I recommend it for those who like unusual, slightly mysterious places.

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Impressive black cathedral

I was intrigued as soon as I heard about it. Once I was there, I have to say it really stands out. Its construction using Volvic stone makes it a unique and impressive building. Especially with its two pointed steeples. The stained glass windows are superb, just like the frescoes (it is so rare!). The streets around it are also pleasant.

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Volcanic stone cathedral

In a city where there are few tall buildings, the Clermont cathedral stands out right away because its two spires dominate the rest of the houses.
Its architecture is without a doubt one of the most interesting in the city. Its dark color is not due to dirt, it is the natural color of the volcanic stone used for its construction, Volvic stone! The interior, which is free, is also interesting, with an impressive giant organ and pretty stained glass windows.

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