The cathedral contains three paintings by Peter Paul Rubens, including 'The Crowning with Thorns' and 'The Crucifixion'.
Jean-Honoré Fragonard, one of the most prolific artists of the Rococo movement, donated his work 'Washing of the Feet' to the cathedral.
The cathedral is built into the hillside, resulting in a floor plan that sits at a different elevation than the main entrance.
It ceased to be a cathedral in 1801 when the Bishopric of Grasse was abolished following the Concordat.
The current facade dates primarily to a 17th-century reconstruction following damage during the Wars of Religion.
Grasse Cathedral, formally the Cathedral of Notre-Dame-du-Puy, is a Roman Catholic cathedral established in the 13th century. Its architecture represents a transition between Romanesque and early Gothic styles, characterized by thick walls and ribbed vaults. The interior houses three original works by Peter Paul Rubens, commissioned for the cathedral in the early 17th century. A painting by Jean-Honoré Fragonard, a native of Grasse, is also displayed within the nave. The cathedral holds a significant collection of religious artifacts and liturgical objects dating back several centuries. Its facade features a prominent porch added during later renovations. The structure served as the seat of the Bishop of Grasse until the diocese was suppressed in the early 19th century.
The perspective from the Place du Petit Puy looking up at the stone facade and the bell tower.
Look for the smaller side chapels which house the most significant artworks.
Visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid the crowds associated with the Grasse perfume festival.
Check the lighting conditions, as the interior can be quite dim due to the thick stone walls.
Attempting to enter during a funeral or private wedding ceremony.
May be closed to tourists during private religious ceremonies or local civic events.
Modest dress is required; shoulders and knees should be covered. Refrain from using flash photography near the paintings.
