Basilique Saint-Donatien-et-Saint-Rogatien
A beautifully restored Gothic basilica in Nantes, dedicated to St. Donatian and St. Rogatian, featuring intricate architecture and a famous Joan of Ar...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Basilique Saint-Donatien-et-Saint-Rogatien
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully restored Gothic basilica in Nantes, dedicated to St. Donatian and St. Rogatian, featuring intricate architecture and a famous Joan of Arc statue.
"Marvel at the bright, clean white stones and high, impressive ceiling after recent extensive restoration."
✨ Admire the Restoration
The recent restoration highlights the bright white stones and impressive ceiling. Don't miss it!
📸 Photography Etiquette
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of services. Check for any restrictions before snapping photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Restored Interior
Main Nave
Marvel at the bright, clean white stones and high, impressive ceiling after recent extensive restoration.

Intricate Facade
Exterior
Admire the beautifully chiseled facade adorned with colored glass windows and statues.

Joan of Arc Statue
Front Entrance
See the famous statue of Joan of Arc (Jeanne d'Arc) standing proudly in front of the basilica.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✨ Admire the Restoration
The recent restoration highlights the bright white stones and impressive ceiling. Don't miss it!
📸 Photography Etiquette
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of services. Check for any restrictions before snapping photos.
📍 Location Insight
This basilica has a rich history dating back to the 6th century.
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Admire the Restoration
The recent restoration highlights the bright white stones and impressive ceiling. Don't miss it!
📸 Photography Etiquette
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of services. Check for any restrictions before snapping photos.
📍 Location Insight
This basilica has a rich history dating back to the 6th century.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Basilique Saint-Donatien-et-Saint-Rogatien for its stunning beauty, particularly after its recent restoration which highlights the bright white stones and impressive interior. The intricate facade and the iconic Joan of Arc statue are also frequently mentioned as highlights. While generally a peaceful place, some may find it less engaging if not interested in religious architecture.
"Beautiful basilic which underwent a recent deep restoration of the inside and outside, which values the bright clean white stones. Nicely cisseled façade with colored glass and statues. High impressive bright ceiling inside.
Famous statue of Joan of Arc (Jeanne d Arc) in front of it."
Guillaume Drieux
"The Basilica of St. Donatian and St. Rogatian is a Roman Catholic church located in Nantes, France. It is dedicated to the two martyrs, St. Donatian and St. Rogatian, who were brothers and the first bishops of Nantes. The basilica is known for its beautiful Gothic architecture, with intricate details and towering spires. It has a rich history dating back to the 6th century and has undergone several renovations and additions over the years. The Basilica of St. Donatian and St. Rogatian is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and historical landmark in Nantes, attracting visitors from around the world."
ChefLaurent DE
"I stayed at Paroisse Saint Donatien et Rogastien during 8 months in the Rectory during 1999 and 2000. It was a wonderful experience. I could experience the warmth of hospitality from all the Fathers like Pere Loiseau, Pere Dupas, Pere Mathorel, Pere Henry, Pere Guilbeud, Pere , office Secretary Mlle Coquenlorge and a lot of Parish people during my doctoral Research in the University of Nantes. Fr. James from Kerala in India"
James J
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The basilica is located in Nantes, France. Public transport options like buses and trams are available. Check local Nantes transport schedules for the most convenient routes.
Information on specific parking availability can vary. It's advisable to check local Nantes parking guides or consider public transport to avoid potential parking challenges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the basilica is typically free, as it is a place of worship. However, donations are often appreciated to support its upkeep.
Opening hours can vary, especially around religious holidays. It's best to check the official parish website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
Visitors are generally welcome to attend services, but it's important to be respectful and quiet. Check the schedule beforehand if you wish to attend a specific service.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The basilica is known for its beautiful Gothic architecture, featuring intricate details and towering spires.
Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but it's crucial to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services.
A famous statue of Joan of Arc (Jeanne d'Arc) is located in front of the basilica, making it a notable landmark.
Yes, the basilica has undergone significant restoration, particularly of its interior and exterior, highlighting its bright white stones.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the basilica itself doesn't offer dining, Nantes has numerous restaurants and cafes nearby. You can find various culinary options within walking distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for opportunities to point out interesting details on the facade or the vibrant colors in the stained-glass windows. The recent restoration has made the interior particularly bright and visually appealing, which can be engaging for children. Remember to explain the importance of quiet behavior in a place of worship to ensure a positive experience for everyone.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
The basilica's deep historical roots, dating back to the 6th century, add a profound sense of continuity and spiritual heritage. The dedication to St. Donatian and St. Rogatian, the first bishops of Nantes, imbues the site with a rich spiritual legacy. Visitors often find the serene environment and the architectural beauty to be deeply moving and inspiring.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
More recently, the basilica has undergone a substantial deep restoration of both its interior and exterior. This meticulous work has revitalized the structure, emphasizing the beauty of its clean, bright white stones. The restoration has enhanced the visual appeal of the facade, with its finely chiseled details, colored glass windows, and statues, as well as the impressive, high ceiling within the main nave.
This commitment to preservation ensures that the basilica remains a place of spiritual significance and architectural admiration for generations to come. Visitors can experience the blend of ancient history and modern renewal, making a visit a truly enriching experience.
Architectural Marvels
Inside, the basilica is equally breathtaking. The high, impressive ceiling draws the eye upward, creating a sense of spaciousness and spiritual elevation. The recent restoration has amplified the natural beauty of the interior, with the bright, clean white stones creating a luminous and serene atmosphere. This careful restoration highlights the original architectural intentions while ensuring the basilica's longevity.
One of the notable features is the famous statue of Joan of Arc (Jeanne d'Arc) situated prominently in front of the basilica. This iconic sculpture adds another layer of historical and cultural significance to the site, making it a point of interest for visitors.
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