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Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur Narbonne

4.6
·5k reviews·Narbonne, France

A monumental, unfinished Gothic cathedral in Narbonne, boasting a soaring choir, exquisite art, and panoramic city views from its tower.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoon (4 PM)

Hear the historic 'Bourdon' bell.

CrowdMedium
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passer par la mairie, le cloitre et l eglise

Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur Narbonne

Best Time

Afternoon (4 PM)

Hear the historic 'Bourdon' bell.

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A monumental, unfinished Gothic cathedral in Narbonne, boasting a soaring choir, exquisite art, and panoramic city views from its tower.

4.6
(5k reviews)

"A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, this unfinished cathedral is an absolute must-see in the South of France."

Vertical photo
TIP

Climb the Tower!

162 steps to an amazing city view. Worth the effort! :athletic_shoe:

Whisper in the Chapter Room

Experience the curious acoustic phenomenon – whisper in a corner and be heard across the room! :microphone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Soaring Choir

Soaring Choir

Interior

The 5th highest choir in France, reaching over 41m, offers a breathtaking sense of scale and Gothic artistry.

Gothic Altarpiece

Gothic Altarpiece

Axial Chapel

A 14th-century masterpiece of European Gothic sculpture, showcasing intricate detail and artistic mastery.

Archbishops' Palace-Museum

Archbishops' Palace-Museum

Adjacent complex

An essential ensemble featuring medieval towers and buildings, offering historical context and stunning city vistas.

The 'Bourdon' Bell

The 'Bourdon' Bell

South Tower

This massive 5-ton bell, the only one to survive the revolution, chimes daily in memory of a historic plague.

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Planning Your Visit

Unfinished Grandeur

Construction began in 1272 but was never completed due to a town council vote against demolishing walls. This unfinished aspect is a key part of its unique charm and history. Plan for a visit that appreciates its existing magnificence.

Beyond the Altar

Don't miss the adjacent Archbishops' Palace-Museum, the intriguing acoustic 'Chapter Room,' and the climb up the south tower for panoramic city views. These elements offer a richer understanding of Narbonne's history.

Best Times

When
Afternoon (4 PM)
Why
Hear the historic 'Bourdon' bell.
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful.
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Je commence à aimer cette ville 🥸 #narbonne
@altezzousursnap
13.9K likes • 379.2K views

Climb the Tower!

162 steps to an amazing city view. Worth the effort! :athletic_shoe:

Whisper in the Chapter Room

Experience the curious acoustic phenomenon – whisper in a corner and be heard across the room! :microphone:

The Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur in Narbonne, France, often associated with the Knights Templar, features intricate carvings depicting demons from esoteric magical scriptures. These carvings have sparked speculation about potential links to black magic among members of the church. The cathedral’s rich history, coupled with its mysterious iconography, invites intrigue and speculati...
ch3at_cod3s
7 likes • 591 views
Cathédrale Saint-Just et Saint-Pasteur, Narbonne, France 🇫🇷 The Narbonne Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church located in the center of Narbonne. Construction began in 1272 and it's famous for being unfinished. The cathedral remains unfinished because the town council voted against a partial demolition of the town wall required to complete the church. The cathedral is a national monument dedicat...
kyle.nef
27 likes • 362 views

Explore the Palace

The adjacent Archbishops' Palace is a must-see, forming a unique historical ensemble. :building_construction:

Admire the Tapestries

Exquisite gobelins add warmth and grandeur to the Gothic interior. :thread:

Narbonne, a beautiful and quiet city. Few cars, but garlanded alleys, lively squares, and kind faces. The Cathedral of Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur: monumental, unfinished, humbling in its beauty. I’m certain this wasn’t my last time here. 💖🇨🇵 --------------- Narbonne, eine schöne und leise Stadt. Kaum Autos, dafür geschmückte Gassen, Plätze voller Leben und freundliche Menschen. Die Kath...
fernwehspuren
127 likes • 1.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Climb the Tower!

162 steps to an amazing city view. Worth the effort! :athletic_shoe:

Whisper in the Chapter Room

Experience the curious acoustic phenomenon – whisper in a corner and be heard across the room! :microphone:

Explore the Palace

The adjacent Archbishops' Palace is a must-see, forming a unique historical ensemble. :building_construction:

Admire the Tapestries

Exquisite gobelins add warmth and grandeur to the Gothic interior. :thread:

Unfinished Beauty

Appreciate its unique history as an unfinished masterpiece of Gothic architecture. :sparkles:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur's dramatic Gothic architecture and rich artistic treasures, particularly its unfinished state and the stunning views from the tower. While not vast, its scale is secondary to its splendor, offering a deeply artistic and historical experience.

"Fantastic 13th and 14th century cathedral which is Narbonne's most prestigious monument and a major building in the Gothic style of southern France. Its construction was ordered in 1268 by Pope Clement IV, former Archbishop of Narbonne and advisor to Saint-Louis. It was dedicated to the young Spanish martyrs Justus and Pasteur. Its choir, the 5th highest in France, reaches over 41 m under the keystone, and the Gothic altarpiece (14th century) of the axial chapel is a masterpiece of European Gothic sculpture. The cathedral forms a unique ensemble with the Archbishops' Palace-Museum. It connects with the current city center, an essential place in Narbonne life where you can admire the 12th century Palais-Vieux building, the Madeleine keep built in the 13th century and connected by an arch spanning the Passage de l'Ancre to the Saint-Martial tower from the early 14th century. At the top of the south tower is the "Bourdon," a large bell weighing 5 tons. It was the only bell to escape melting during the revolutionary days of 1793. Around 4 p.m., the Saint-Just bourdon chimes its deep notes above the rooftops in memory of the plague epidemic that devastated the city in 1652. Despite various attempts, the nave of this cathedral was never completed; it was to extend for a hundred meters more. The cloister galleries are interesting as well to discover.

On the upper floor of the Chapel of the Annunciation, in a brick-vaulted room, called "Chapter Room" features a square-shaped room covered by a brick dome that creates a curious acoustic phenomenon of sound propagation from one corner of the room to the other. Indeed, if you whisper in a corner facing the wall, you can be heard perfectly on the opposite side!

The Treasury brings together pieces from the Carolingian period to the modern era: a 9th-century carved ivory Gospel plaque, an 11th-century Hispano-Moresque pyxis, the illuminated pontifical of Archbishop Pierre de la Jugie, the Flemish tapestry of the Creation circa 1500, as well as other exceptional liturgical objects that testify to the great wealth of the archbishops of Narbonne !

Finally, save your legs and your breath to climb the 162 steps of the magnificent spiral staircase. At 42 meters high, you will enjoy an exceptional view of the city of Narbonne, from the coast to the Pyrenees. The keep, one of the best preserved in the south of France, is a powerful square tower, at the corner of the Palais Neuf, built from 1295 to 1306 by Archbishop Gilles Aycelin, also an advisor to King Philip IV Le Bel. It consists of four rooms : the hemispherical room called Treasury room, the king's chamber and the defense room ..."

Enjoy life

"Though relatively modest in size, the Narbonne Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Just et Saint-Pasteur) leaves a lasting impression through its rich ornamentation and artistic treasures. Among its standout features are the exquisite gobelins—tapestries that add warmth and grandeur to the Gothic interior. The space, while not vast, feels intimate and regal, thanks to the abundance of decorative details and ecclesiastical jewels. It’s a hidden gem where scale is secondary to splendor."

Felipe Buitrago

"Amazing place. I’m not into churches but this is pretty dramatic and different. The walk around it surprises you with al different. Styles."

Nicky

What People Like

Unfinished Gothic architecture
Stunning tower views
Artistic treasures

What People Dislike

Can be crowded at peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The cathedral is located in the center of Narbonne, France, making it easily accessible on foot if you are already in the city. If arriving by car, there are parking options nearby, though navigating narrow city streets might require some patience. Public transport options within Narbonne are limited, so walking is often the most convenient way to reach it once you're in the vicinity. Instagram

Yes, there are several parking areas around the city center of Narbonne, some of which are within walking distance of the Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur. It's advisable to check local parking signs for availability and fees, as street parking can be limited. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, and it's always best to check the official website or local listings before your visit. Generally, cathedrals are open during daylight hours, but specific times for the treasury or tower climbs might differ. Reddit

Entry to the main cathedral area is often free, but there might be a fee for specific sections like the treasury, museum, or tower climb. It's recommended to check for any admission fees for these attractions to plan accordingly. Reddit

Yes, there is typically a fee to climb the south tower of the Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur for the panoramic views. The climb involves 162 steps, and the fee usually covers access to this unique vantage point. Reddit

The Archbishops' Palace-Museum is often a separate entity or has its own ticketing system, though it forms a unique ensemble with the cathedral. It's advisable to inquire about combined tickets or separate admission fees for the museum. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Its most striking feature is that it was never completed, despite construction starting in 1272. It boasts a soaring 41m high choir, a masterpiece Gothic altarpiece, and unique features like an acoustic 'Chapter Room' and a massive bell. InstagramReddit

Visitors should not miss the impressive Gothic altarpiece in the axial chapel, the stunning Flemish tapestry of the Creation, and the unique acoustic phenomenon in the 'Chapter Room.' The treasury also holds significant historical artifacts. Reddit

Absolutely! The climb of 162 steps leads to an exceptional 42-meter high view of Narbonne, stretching from the coast to the Pyrenees. It's a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

In a specific room on the upper floor of the Chapel of the Annunciation, a unique acoustic effect allows whispers in one corner to be heard perfectly on the opposite side. It's a fascinating architectural quirk. Reddit

Yes, the Treasury houses remarkable pieces from the Carolingian period to modern times, including a 9th-century ivory Gospel plaque, an 11th-century Hispano-Moresque pyxis, and exceptional liturgical objects. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the grandeur of the unfinished facade, the intricate details of the Gothic altarpiece, the soaring heights of the choir, and the panoramic city views from the south tower. The stained-glass windows also offer beautiful light play. Instagram+1

Generally, photography for personal use is permitted inside the cathedral, but it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions, especially regarding flash photography, which can be disruptive or damaging to artifacts. Instagram

Late afternoon light can be beautiful for exterior shots, highlighting the stone textures. Inside, the stained-glass windows are most vibrant when the sun is at a good angle, often mid-morning or mid-afternoon. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur offers a unique blend of history and intrigue that can captivate younger visitors. The sheer scale of the unfinished cathedral and the stories behind its construction can spark imagination. The 'Chapter Room' with its acoustic trick is a guaranteed hit, providing a fun, interactive element. Reddit

While the climb up the tower might be challenging for very young children, older kids will likely enjoy the rewarding panoramic views. The Archbishops' Palace-Museum offers further exploration of medieval life. Consider focusing on the visual aspects – the grand architecture, the detailed sculptures, and the colorful tapestries – to keep children engaged. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, the Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur is a goldmine. Its unfinished state tells a story of medieval ambition and historical constraints. The connection to Pope Clement IV and its dedication to martyrs Justus and Pasteur provide significant historical context. Reddit

Delve into the Archbishops' Palace-Museum, exploring its various towers and buildings that showcase centuries of architectural evolution and defensive strategies. The treasury's collection of artifacts, spanning from the Carolingian era to more recent times, offers a tangible link to the past. Don't miss the historical significance of the 'Bourdon' bell and its daily chime. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The Narbonne Cathedral presents a wealth of photographic opportunities. The dramatic, unfinished facade against the sky offers a unique architectural subject. Inside, the soaring Gothic vaults, intricate altarpiece, and vibrant stained-glass windows provide stunning interior shots. Instagram+1

The climb to the south tower is essential for capturing panoramic cityscapes, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. The surrounding Archbishops' Palace complex also offers picturesque views and interesting architectural details. Remember to check for any flash restrictions inside the cathedral. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unfinished Masterpiece

The Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur in Narbonne is a striking example of Gothic architecture, notable for its ambitious construction that began in 1272 but was never fully completed. The decision by the town council to not demolish existing walls required for its expansion halted its intended grand scale. This unfinished nature, however, contributes to its unique character and historical narrative. Visitors can marvel at the impressive transept and the soaring 40-meter-high choir, which stands as a testament to the original vision. Instagram

Despite its incomplete nave, the cathedral is a significant monument in southern French Gothic style. Its construction was initiated by Pope Clement IV, who was formerly the Archbishop of Narbonne. The dedication to the young Spanish martyrs Justus and Pasteur adds a layer of historical and religious significance. The sheer scale of the existing structure and the intricate details within its completed sections make it a compelling site for history and architecture enthusiasts. Reddit

Exploring the cathedral offers a glimpse into medieval ambition and the realities of historical urban planning. The unfinished walls serve as a constant reminder of the past, inviting contemplation on what might have been. It's a place where the grandeur of the design is palpable, even in its incomplete state, making it a truly unique experience. Instagram

Treasures Within: Art and Acoustics

Beyond its architectural marvel, the Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur houses a remarkable collection of art and historical artifacts. The 14th-century Gothic altarpiece in the axial chapel is a highlight, celebrated as a masterpiece of European Gothic sculpture. The cathedral also features exquisite Flemish tapestries, such as the 'Creation' circa 1500, which add warmth and visual richness to the interior. These artistic elements underscore the wealth and importance of the Archbishops of Narbonne throughout history. Reddit

A particularly intriguing feature is the 'Chapter Room' located on the upper floor of the Chapel of the Annunciation. This square room, covered by a brick dome, possesses a curious acoustic phenomenon. If you whisper in one corner facing the wall, your voice can be heard perfectly on the opposite side. This natural amplification effect is a delightful surprise for visitors and a testament to clever medieval design. Reddit

The Treasury itself is a treasure trove, showcasing pieces ranging from the Carolingian period to modern times. Highlights include a 9th-century carved ivory Gospel plaque, an 11th-century Hispano-Moresque pyxis, and the illuminated pontifical of Archbishop Pierre de la Jugie. These objects offer a tangible connection to centuries of religious and artistic heritage. Reddit

Panoramic Views and Medieval Fortifications

For those seeking breathtaking vistas, a climb up the south tower of the Narbonne Cathedral is an absolute must. Ascending the 162 steps rewards visitors with an exceptional 42-meter-high panoramic view of the city of Narbonne. From this vantage point, you can see all the way from the coast to the distant Pyrenees mountains, offering a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape. Reddit

The tower is part of the larger Archbishops' Palace complex, which includes impressive medieval fortifications. The 'Madeleine' keep, built in the 13th century, and the Saint-Martial tower from the early 14th century, are significant structures that speak to the defensive and residential importance of the palace. The Palais-Vieux building, dating back to the 12th century, also forms part of this historical ensemble. Reddit

At the top of the south tower resides the 'Bourdon,' a massive bell weighing 5 tons. This bell is historically significant as it was the only one to escape melting during the revolutionary days of 1793. Around 4 p.m. daily, it chimes its deep notes above the rooftops, a tradition that commemorates the devastating plague epidemic of 1652. Reddit

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