Tours Cathedral

The cathedral's history dates back to 338, when an initial church was erected on this site. Following a fire in the 6th century, a splendid new structure was built and consecrated in 590. In the early 12th century, a Romanesque bishop's church followed, which also fell victim to fire in 1166. Due to its inferior construction quality, it was largely dilapidated by the early 13th century. Thus, around 1220/1230, construction began on the current Gothic cathedral. The choir and apse were completed around 1280 under Étienne de Mortagne, although the relics of Saint Maurice and his companions had already been solemnly transferred in 1267. The vaulting of the building was completed in 1465. The transept and the first two bays of the nave were built by Simon du Mans, with the remaining bays by Jean de Dammartin. The 70-meter-high north and south towers, designed by Pierre Valence, were completed in 1509 and 1507 respectively, crowning the structure with Renaissance helmets and lanterns.

The Cathedral of Tours is located in the city of Tours in the Indre-et-Loire department, in the Centre-Val de Loire region, France. It stands at an elevation of approximately 68 meters above sea level.

Today, visitors can explore the cathedral, admiring its architectural splendor and historical details. The sacred building is accessible to the public.

• Château de Tours (castle), approx. 0.2 km away
• Hôtel Goüin (residence), approx. 0.7 km away
• Château de Luynes (castle), approx. 10.7 km away
• Château de Montbazon (castle), approx. 12.4 km away