Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral Sarlat-la-Canéda
A stunning co-cathedral in Sarlat-la-Canéda, showcasing Gothic architecture and a historic Romanesque bell tower.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral Sarlat-la-Canéda
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning co-cathedral in Sarlat-la-Canéda, showcasing Gothic architecture and a historic Romanesque bell tower.
"A magnificent building which holds the title of co-cathedral of the Diocese of Périgueux and Sarlat."
Visit during market days
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Sarlat's market held in the church square.
Explore the medieval town
The cathedral is in the heart of a stunning medieval town, perfect for wandering.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gothic Architecture
Admire the Nordic-inspired Gothic style with its striking high ceilings and double side aisles.
12th-Century Bell Tower
The oldest part of the cathedral, this Romanesque bell tower offers a glimpse into earlier construction phases.
Stained-Glass Windows
Experience the beauty of the cathedral's stained-glass windows, which add a vibrant glow to the interior.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Sarlat's Cathedral
Understanding the Cathedral's History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit during market days
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Sarlat's market held in the church square.
Explore the medieval town
The cathedral is in the heart of a stunning medieval town, perfect for wandering.
Check for events
The cathedral sometimes hosts concerts or special exhibitions.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit during market days
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Sarlat's market held in the church square.
Explore the medieval town
The cathedral is in the heart of a stunning medieval town, perfect for wandering.
Check for events
The cathedral sometimes hosts concerts or special exhibitions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral as a magnificent and historically significant building, perfectly situated within the charming medieval town of Sarlat-la-Canéda. Its Gothic architecture, Romanesque bell tower, and beautiful stained-glass windows are frequently highlighted as impressive features. While generally free to enter, some note it can be noisy during market days.
"A magnificent building which holds the title of co-cathedral of the Diocese of Périgueux and Sarlat. It was listed as a historical monument in 1840.
The sanctuary is dedicated to Saint Sacerdos. There are two saints named Sacerdos in France, but the cathedral's patronage refers to Sacerdos of Limoges, whose relics were received by the cathedral in the Middle Ages. The relics disappeared during the Wars of Religion.
The Diocese of Sarlat was created in 1317, along with several other Catholic dioceses in the Aquitaine region, following the victory of the French royal forces over the Albigensian Cathar armies. Pope John XXII, former Bishop of Cahors, appointed the abbot of the Benedictine Abbey of Saint-Sacerdos as the new bishop of the city. Thus, the former Romanesque abbey church became the cathedral of the diocese.
Reconstruction began in 1504, and Bishop Armand de Gontaud-Biron entrusted Master Builder Pierre Esclache with the task of building a new cathedral, initially carried out under the orders of Master Mason Blaise Bernard. Work was intermittent due to lack of funds, wars, and epidemics. It was not completed until the 1680s. The vaults were built from 1682 to 1685, under the episcopate of François III de Salignac de la Mothe-Fénelon, Fénelon's uncle and godfather, tutor to the Dauphin, and Archbishop of Cambrai. The diocese was abolished during the Concordat of 1801, and its territory was incorporated into the Diocese of Périgueux.
Although reusing certain Romanesque parts of the old abbey church, the general style of the cathedral is Gothic of Nordic inspiration (presence of two side aisles). The Romanesque bell tower dates from the 12th century and is the oldest part of the building. It succeeded a Carolingian construction and underwent changes: the top floor dates from the 17th century and the bulbous belfry from the 18th century."
Enjoy life
"Medieval building with high ceiling and beautiful stained-glass windows, what’s not to like about it...
Such historical town with a nice cathedral (was once a cathedral) to boast. Constructions for this place started since the 14th century, however, it was not completed until the 17th century. This town is a must visit."
Hanh Nguyen
"A beautiful church in the middle of the town. A bit noisy during Market day."
Tin Nguyen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cathedral is located in the heart of Sarlat-la-Canéda's medieval center, making it easily accessible on foot if you're exploring the town. Parking can be challenging in the historic center, so consider using designated parking areas outside the immediate vicinity and walking in.
Sarlat-la-Canéda has a train station with connections to major cities like Bordeaux and Paris. From the station, you can take a local bus or a taxi to the town center where the cathedral is located.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the cathedral itself is generally free, though donations are appreciated. Special exhibitions or events might have separate admission fees.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and may be affected by services or events. It's best to check the official Sarlat tourism website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information.
Access to the bell tower may require a separate ticket or be part of a guided tour. Information on this is usually available at the cathedral or local tourist office.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visiting on a weekday morning, especially outside of peak tourist season, is recommended for a more peaceful experience. Weekends and market days can be quite busy.
Photography is usually permitted inside the cathedral, but it's always respectful to check for any signage or ask a member of staff, especially if flash photography is involved.
Guided tours can offer deeper insights into the cathedral's history and architecture. Inquire at the cathedral or the Sarlat tourist office about availability and languages.
Originally an abbey church, it became the cathedral of the Diocese of Sarlat in 1317. It underwent extensive reconstruction from the 16th to 17th centuries, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the cathedral is located in the heart of Sarlat, which is renowned for its culinary scene. You'll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and bakeries offering local specialties just steps away.
Sarlat is famous for its foie gras, truffles, and duck confit. Many restaurants around the cathedral will feature these delicious regional dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
The square in front of the cathedral offers great perspectives, especially with the medieval town as a backdrop. The interior also provides opportunities for capturing architectural details and stained glass.
Yes, the Romanesque bell tower is a prominent feature and can be photographed from various angles within the town.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children to explore without feeling overwhelmed. The surrounding medieval town also offers plenty of space for kids to wander and discover, making the cathedral visit part of a larger, enjoyable family adventure.
🏛️ History Buffs
The story of the lost relics of Saint Sacerdos and the diocese's abolition during the Concordat of 1801 add further layers of historical intrigue. Exploring the cathedral provides a tangible connection to centuries of French history and religious development in the Aquitaine region.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Journey: From Romanesque to Gothic
The cathedral's evolution from an abbey church to a co-cathedral is deeply intertwined with the region's history. Established in 1317, the Diocese of Sarlat saw the former abbey church elevated to cathedral status. Although the diocese was later abolished, the building retained its importance. Visitors can appreciate the reuse of some Romanesque elements from the original abbey church, which provides a tangible link to its past, while the dominant Gothic style speaks to the aspirations and craftsmanship of later eras.
Key features to observe include the intricate stained-glass windows, which bathe the interior in colored light, and the overall sense of scale created by the soaring vaults. The bell tower, with its 17th-century top floor and 18th-century bulbous belfry, also showcases the layering of different historical periods. Exploring these architectural nuances offers a deeper understanding of the cathedral's enduring legacy.
Sarlat's Medieval Charm and the Cathedral's Role
During market days, the square surrounding the cathedral becomes a lively hub, filled with local produce, crafts, and the buzz of activity. This creates a unique juxtaposition of the sacred and the secular, offering a truly immersive experience of Sarlat life. Travelers often remark on the beauty of the town and how the cathedral perfectly complements its historic charm.
Beyond its architectural significance, the cathedral's presence enhances the overall exploration of Sarlat. It's a place where history, culture, and daily life converge, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the Dordogne region.
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