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Temples #1 in Saint-Dié-des-Vosges

Saint-Dié Cathedral

4.5 · 665 reviews
A quiet place for reflection and architectural study
Saint-Dié Cathedral, Rdpt des Combattants d'Afn et Téo, 88100 Saint-Dié-des-Vosges, France
Interesting facts
1

The cathedral complex includes the Notre-Dame-de-Galilée chapel, one of the oldest standing structures in the Vosges region.

2

The cloister dates back to the 15th century and connects the main cathedral to the Romanesque chapel.

3

The site was designated a Monument Historique in 1886.

4

Saint Deodatus, the city's namesake, is believed to have settled here as a hermit in the 7th century.

5

The cathedral contains a large Cavaillé-Coll organ dating from the 19th century.

6

The nave features characteristic Vosges sandstone, which gives the masonry its distinctive reddish hue.

Overview

Saint-Dié Cathedral is a complex of religious structures combining a Romanesque nave from the 12th century with a 15th-century Gothic cloister. It is officially dedicated to Saint Deodatus of Nevers, who founded the original monastery in the 7th century. The site is a co-cathedral serving the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saint-Dié alongside the Cathedral of Saint-Dié-des-Vosges. The architecture reflects a unique juxtaposition of styles, including the distinct 18th-century facade of the Notre-Dame-de-Galilée chapel. It was heavily impacted by fire during the Second World War but subsequently restored. The cathedral serves as the primary spiritual landmark for the town of Saint-Dié-des-Vosges.

Photo spot

From the center of the cloister looking toward the junction of the two churches.

Insider tips

Walk through the connecting cloister to appreciate the transition between the Romanesque and Gothic architectural periods.

Check the local diocese bulletin board near the entrance for information on organ recitals.

Visit during the afternoon when sunlight highlights the red sandstone exterior.

What to avoid

Avoid visiting during private weddings or funerals, which may restrict access to the nave.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet volume and remove headwear; modest dress is expected as it is an active place of worship.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45 minutes to 1 hour
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn for comfortable walking temperatures and softer exterior lighting.
Address
Saint-Dié Cathedral, Rdpt des Combattants d'Afn et Téo, 88100 Saint-Dié-des-Vosges, France
48.289, 6.951
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleRomanesque and Gothic
Key feature15th-century Gothic cloister

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45 minutes to 1 hour to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn for comfortable walking temperatures and softer exterior lighting..

From the center of the cloister looking toward the junction of the two churches.

Close by you'll find Tour de la liberté, musée Pierre-Noël de Saint-Dié-des-Vosges, Trainland.