Église Sainte-Croix
A magnificent Romanesque church and former abbey in Bordeaux, featuring a historic 18th-century pipe organ and a facade rich with layers of time.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Likely open, fewer crowds
Église Sainte-Croix
Best Time
Likely open, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent Romanesque church and former abbey in Bordeaux, featuring a historic 18th-century pipe organ and a facade rich with layers of time.
"Magnificent building, well worth visiting despite signs of decay."
Confirm Opening Times
Doors can be unexpectedly closed. Check local listings or try to confirm hours beforehand. :clock1:
Look for Donation Points
If you appreciate the church, consider leaving a donation to aid in its preservation. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Impressive Romanesque Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the grandeur of this historic church, showcasing beautiful Romanesque design both inside and out.
18th-Century Pipe Organ
Interior
Experience the beauty of a historic pipe organ, a testament to the church's rich musical heritage.
Layers of History on Facades
Exterior
Appreciate the unique character of the church's facade, preserved with visible layers of time.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Hours
Be Prepared for Preservation Work
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
St. Croix - Things we MUST do
Confirm Opening Times
Doors can be unexpectedly closed. Check local listings or try to confirm hours beforehand. :clock1:
Look for Donation Points
If you appreciate the church, consider leaving a donation to aid in its preservation. :moneybag:
What to do on a first visit to St. Croix
Planning a trip to St. Croix. Handful of questions.
Appreciate the Historic Facade
Even if closed, the exterior showcases layers of history and unique architectural details. :building_construction:
Nearby Dining Options
There are restaurants and cafes nearby for a snack or drink after your visit. :coffee:
Best Way to Spend a Day?
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Opening Times
Doors can be unexpectedly closed. Check local listings or try to confirm hours beforehand. :clock1:
Look for Donation Points
If you appreciate the church, consider leaving a donation to aid in its preservation. :moneybag:
Appreciate the Historic Facade
Even if closed, the exterior showcases layers of history and unique architectural details. :building_construction:
Nearby Dining Options
There are restaurants and cafes nearby for a snack or drink after your visit. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Église Sainte-Croix to be a beautiful and impressive church with significant Romanesque architecture and a historic pipe organ. However, many report issues with inconsistent opening hours and occasional ongoing preservation work, which can lead to disappointment.
"Such a beautiful church. Very impressive both outside an in. Sadly it has serious issues with dampness/humidity and the signs of decay are all to apparent. For all that, it is still a magnificent building and well worth visiting. A more obvious donation point would do no harm."
Alan Farquhar
"This is one of the two most impressive churches in Bordeaux. I like the way that the building is preserved with layers of time kept on the facades, creating a sense of a unique and attractive church in its own way. Unfortunately, when I visited, the square in front of the church was fenced for archaeology, and the church was not open, so I couldn't experience the space inside."
Hung Khuat
"We walked by several times and the place was closed. But this time the doors are open we had the opportunity to go inside and see the interior of the church. It’s built in the 1700s and was renovated a few times. It has a statue of St. George on the façade and upper left side.
If you are a church fan, this would be a place to come with me however there’s no sign in the door let you know when the doors are open.
This one is a lot construction going on just on the outside so it makes it a little bit not so sexy there. There’s a little square nearby couple restaurants you can have a drink a little snack or two enjoy yourself."
Corbett Santana Videographer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Église Sainte-Croix is located in Bordeaux, France. It's accessible by public transport, with several bus lines stopping nearby. Walking from the city center is also an option if you enjoy exploring the streets. :bus: :walking:
Parking in the vicinity of Église Sainte-Croix can be challenging due to its central location. It's recommended to use public transportation or consider parking garages a short walk away. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Église Sainte-Croix is generally free, as it is a functioning church. However, donations are appreciated to help with its upkeep and preservation. :heart:
Opening hours can be inconsistent, and visitors have reported finding it closed even during expected times. It's advisable to check local listings or try to confirm hours on the day of your visit. :alarm_clock:
While it may be open for services on Sundays, access for general visiting might be limited. It's best to verify the specific Sunday hours if you plan to visit on a weekend. :church:
During mass or religious services, visitors may be asked to remain quiet or may not be able to explore freely. It's respectful to be mindful of ongoing services. :pray:
As a place of worship, visitors are expected to dress respectfully and maintain a quiet demeanor. Photography might be restricted in certain areas or during services. :camerawithflash:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside Église Sainte-Croix, but it's always a good idea to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Avoid using flash photography. :iphone:
The facade offers a unique visual with its layers of history. Inside, the architecture and the historic pipe organ are prime subjects for photography. :camera:
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Église Sainte-Croix is primarily a Romanesque church, showcasing the characteristic features of this architectural period. :classical_building:
Originally a former abbey, Église Sainte-Croix has a long history and has undergone renovations over the centuries, preserving layers of its past. :scroll:
The facade is noted for its preservation of 'layers of time,' giving it a unique and attractive appearance. You might also spot a statue of St. George. :statueofliberty:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Be prepared for potential inconsistencies in opening hours, but even an exterior view reveals the building's grandeur and historical significance. Consider researching its abbey history beforehand to enhance your appreciation of the site.
Day-Trippers from Bordeaux
Even if closed, admire the impressive facade and its layered historical details. The area around the church also has nearby cafes and restaurants for a quick break.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Architecture and History
Inside, the church houses an 18th-century pipe organ, which is a notable feature for its age and craftsmanship. While the church is a place of worship, its historical and architectural significance draws many visitors. Be aware that due to its age, the building may face challenges like dampness and humidity, which are signs of decay that some visitors have observed. Despite these issues, the magnificence of the building remains evident.
For those planning a visit, it's worth noting that archaeological work has sometimes taken place in the square in front of the church, which could temporarily affect access or views. However, the church's enduring presence and its blend of historical preservation and ongoing use make it a compelling stop for anyone exploring Bordeaux.
Visitor Experience and Practicalities
Despite potential closure issues, those who manage to get inside often describe the interior as magnificent and well worth the visit. The historic pipe organ is a particular highlight. If the church is closed, the exterior still offers a lot to appreciate, with its unique facade showcasing the passage of time. Nearby, you can find a couple of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a drink or a snack, making the area pleasant even if the church itself isn't accessible.
For those who are passionate about churches, Église Sainte-Croix is a place to seek out. However, the lack of clear signage indicating opening hours can be a drawback. Being prepared for the possibility of it being closed, but still appreciating its external beauty and the surrounding amenities, can lead to a more positive experience.
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