CathedralAutun

Cathédrale Saint-Lazare d'Autun

Cathédrale Saint-Lazare d'Autun

The church can be visited

The Cathedral of Saint-Lazare in Autun is an outstanding Romanesque edifice in Burgundy, France. It stands majestically on the highest point of Autun's upper town and is dedicated to Saint Lazarus. It is particularly renowned for its richly adorned west portal, which represents a masterpiece of Romanesque sculpture.

History+

A Christian community existed in Autun as early as the late 2nd century. A first cathedral was documented in the mid-9th century. Construction of the current building began around 1120 and was consecrated, though still unfinished, in 1130. The relics of Saint Lazarus were transferred from the old cathedral in 1146, while the narthex was still under construction. Following destruction by the English in 1379, restoration and expansion took place under Cardinal Jean Rolin, which shaped the current appearance with late Gothic chapels and the mighty crossing tower. The cathedral's design is inspired by the third church of Cluny Abbey, but features its own traditional solutions in the choir area.

Location+

The Cathedral of Autun is located in the city of Autun, in the Saône-et-Loire department in the Bourgogne (Burgundy) region of France. It stands at an elevation of approximately 358 m above sea level.

On site+

The church is currently open to the public and can be visited. Visitors can admire the impressive architecture and intricate details, especially the tympanum of the west portal with its depiction of the Last Judgment by Master Gislebertus. The figurative capitals inside are also worth seeing.

Nearby+
  • Château du Petit Montjeu (Castle), approx. 0.8 km away
  • Roman City Augustodunum-Pyramide de Couhard (Ancient Buildings), approx. 1.2 km away
  • Roman City Augustodunum-Theater (Ancient Buildings), approx. 1.2 km away
  • Roman City Augustodunum-Porte Saint-André (Ancient Buildings), approx. 1.5 km away

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Source: Wikipedia · Licence: CC BY-SA 4.0 · Image: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Cath%C3%A9drale_Autun_02.JPG?uselang=fr

This description draws on the facts documented in the linked Wikipedia article; Wikipedia content is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Wording and editing: Mobile History.

Location: 46.9450, 4.2991