Annecy Cathedral
A historic 16th-century Gothic cathedral in Annecy, known for its vaulted ceilings, pipe organ, and serene atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Annecy Cathedral
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 16th-century Gothic cathedral in Annecy, known for its vaulted ceilings, pipe organ, and serene atmosphere.
"The cathedral holds a charm of the old very well, does not look run down like some of the other churches around."
Free Entry 🍿
The cathedral is free to enter, making it an accessible and worthwhile stop in the touristy areas.
Quiet Respect 🙏
Remember it's a place of worship. Keep noise levels down and dress respectfully.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vaulted Ceilings
Marvel at the intricate, soaring vaulted ceilings that create a sense of grandeur and timelessness within the cathedral.
Pipe Organ
Experience the majestic sound of the historic pipe organ, a centerpiece of the cathedral's musical heritage.
16th Century Architecture
Admire the Gothic-style interior and wonderful craftsmanship of this historic 16th-century church.
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Timing Your Visit to Annecy Cathedral
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Insider Tips
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Free Entry 🍿
The cathedral is free to enter, making it an accessible and worthwhile stop in the touristy areas.
Quiet Respect 🙏
Remember it's a place of worship. Keep noise levels down and dress respectfully.
Architectural Details 🌈
Look for the beautiful stained glass and rose window, adding to the interior's charm.
Central Location 📍
Easily accessible as it's situated in the middle of touristy areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry 🍿
The cathedral is free to enter, making it an accessible and worthwhile stop in the touristy areas.
Quiet Respect 🙏
Remember it's a place of worship. Keep noise levels down and dress respectfully.
Architectural Details 🌈
Look for the beautiful stained glass and rose window, adding to the interior's charm.
Central Location 📍
Easily accessible as it's situated in the middle of touristy areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Annecy Cathedral to be a serene and historically significant site, praised for its free entry and beautiful Gothic interior, including stained glass and vaulted ceilings. While some note the need for maintenance, its central location and peaceful ambiance make it a worthwhile stop for those exploring the charming old town.
"Originally constructed between 1535 and 1538 as a chapel for the Cordeliers convent, the building gained prominence in 1538 when it became the refuge for the Bishop of Geneva during the Protestant Reformation. Elevated to cathedral status in 1822, it has since stood as the seat of the Diocese of Annecy. Notably, during the French Revolution, the cathedral was repurposed as a “Temple of Reason,” reflecting the era’s secular ideologies ."
Wisanu Tuntawiroon
"The Cathedral stands in between buildings near to the Police Municipal.
There are two stairways that bring you to the front (entrance) of the church.
The Cathedral holds a charm of the old very well, does not look run down like some of the other churches around. Still, the Cathedral needs maintenance.
The high ceiling of the Cathedral is able to enable any hymns sung in the Cathedral sound majestic.
The doors of the Cathedral stood out since many of the other church doors seem to have been replaced with plywood or so it seems.
The main structure of the church is made of granite and marble. The interior of the church seems to have been designed splendidly using good wood.
The doors are open to public since the church is situated in the middle of touristy areas."
Dr Reviews
"The cathedral of Saint Pierre has architectural marvels. 16th century, oldest church in the city. Has a gothic styles interior with wonderful craftsmanship. Free to enter so worth a visit."
Malcolm Petfield
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Annecy Cathedral is located in the heart of the city, nestled between other buildings near the Police Municipal. You can reach it by walking through the charming streets of the old town.
Parking in Annecy can be challenging, especially during peak season. It's advisable to use public parking garages in the city center and walk to the cathedral.
Yes, many walking tours of Annecy's old town include a stop at the cathedral due to its central and historic location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Annecy Cathedral is free. It's open to the public, making it an easily accessible attraction.
The cathedral is generally open to the public during daylight hours, but specific times can vary. It's best to check locally or look for signage upon arrival, especially if visiting on a Sunday or during a holiday.
Photography is usually permitted inside, but it's essential to be respectful. Avoid using flash, and refrain from taking photos during services. Always check for any posted restrictions.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Annecy Cathedral features a 16th-century Gothic style interior with wonderful craftsmanship. Its vaulted ceilings and rose window are notable architectural marvels.
Visitors often praise the majestic sound of hymns due to the high ceilings and the beauty of the stained glass and rose window. The interior is well-maintained and offers a serene atmosphere.
Yes, as a functioning cathedral, it hosts regular religious services. Visitors should be mindful of these and maintain a quiet presence.
While the cathedral holds its charm well, some reviews suggest it could benefit from maintenance. However, it's generally considered to be in good condition and a worthwhile visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on capturing the grandeur of the vaulted ceilings, the intricate details of the pipe organ, and the light filtering through the stained glass windows and rose window.
Late afternoons can offer beautiful lighting as the sun streams through the windows, creating a warm glow. Early mornings can provide a more peaceful setting for capturing interior shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage children to look for the stained glass windows and imagine the stories they tell. The spacious interior allows for a quiet walk-through, and the central location means it's easily accessible between other family-friendly activities like exploring the canals or visiting the Palais de l'Isle.
⛪ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
Consider researching its role during the Protestant Reformation and its temporary transformation during the French Revolution to fully appreciate its historical context. The cathedral's granite and marble construction, along with its unique doors, are also points of architectural interest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
During the French Revolution, the cathedral experienced a dramatic shift, being repurposed as a 'Temple of Reason.' This reflects the era's secularization efforts and the complex historical tapestry of France. Today, it stands as a testament to centuries of religious and civic history, a quiet observer of Annecy's evolution.
The cathedral's structure, primarily made of granite and marble, features a Gothic-style interior with impressive craftsmanship. The doors themselves are noted for their distinctiveness, standing out from those of other churches.
Architectural Marvels and Ambiance
Key visual elements include the beautiful stained glass windows and a notable rose window, which cast colorful light into the nave, creating a serene and blessed ambiance.
Despite its historical significance and architectural beauty, some reviews mention the need for maintenance. However, the overall impression is that of a well-preserved, charming, and spiritually uplifting space, easily accessible due to its central location in a tourist-heavy area.
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