The Triptych of the Master of Moulins is considered one of the most important works of art in France, though the artist's identity remains unidentified.
The cathedral serves as the seat of the Bishop of Moulins.
The original collegiate church was built in the 15th century by the Dukes of Bourbon to serve as their burial place.
The Neo-Gothic choir was added to the original Flamboyant nave between 1854 and 1874 to increase the building's scale.
The cathedral's carillon, installed in the 19th century, is one of the largest in the region.
The building suffered damage during the French Revolution, leading to the loss of several religious statues and interior ornaments.
Moulins Cathedral, officially the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l'Annonciation de Moulins, is a synthesis of two distinct architectural eras, featuring a Flamboyant Gothic nave and a Neo-Gothic choir. It houses the 15th-century Triptych of the Master of Moulins, a masterpiece of early French Renaissance painting commissioned by the Duke of Bourbon. The structure is composed of limestone from the local region, giving it a distinct golden hue under sunlight. The cathedral was elevated to its current status in 1822 following the creation of the Diocese of Moulins. Its stained glass windows date largely from the 15th and 16th centuries, though significant restorations occurred in the 19th century. The interior contains the black marble tomb of Anne of France, Duchess of Bourbon, which reflects the prominence of the House of Bourbon in the city's history.
The view from the Place de la Déportation provides the best angle of the twin towers and the western facade.
Spend time studying the details of the Master of Moulins triptych located in the sacristy/treasury area.
Look for the black marble effigy of Anne of France, which is a rare survivor of the Bourbon funerary monuments.
Check the cathedral's official parish website before visiting to ensure the interior is not closed for a private religious ceremony.
Do not attempt to walk through the choir area if it is cordoned off for liturgy.
Maintain silence, remove hats, and avoid photography during religious services.
