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Cathédral St-Gatien

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Cathédral St-Gatien Review

Built between 1239 and 1484, this noted cathedral, one of the greatest churches of the Loire Valley, reveals a mixture of architectural styles. The richly sculpted stonework of its majestic, soaring, two-tower facade betrays the Renaissance influence on local château-trained craftsmen. The stained glass dates from the 13th century (if you have binoculars, bring them). Also take a look at the little tomb with kneeling angels built in memory of Charles VIII and Anne of Brittany's two children; and the Cloître de La Psalette (Psalm Cloister, €3), on the south side of the cathedral, where the canons of St-Gatien created some of the most beautiful illuminated manuscripts in medieval Europe.

    Contact Information

  • Address: Rue Lavoisier, Tours, 37000
  • Phone: 02-47-47-05-19
  • Hours: Apr.--Sept., Mon.--Sat. 9:30--12:30 and 2--6, Sun. 2--6; Oct.--Mar., Wed.--Sat. 9:30--12:30 and 2--5, Sun.--Tues. 2--5
  • Website: la-psalette.monuments-nationaux.fr
  • Location: Tours
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    Stained Glass Windows Rival Sainte-Chappele

    Tours Cathedral has astonishing 13th century stained glass windows which have complete explanations on site in ENGLISH and rivaling Chartres & Sainte-Chappele, Paris. Take binoculars. Also don't miss the early wall paintings on the south aisle. Sadly we found no souvenir booklet

    by kenhinton48, 5/29/07

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