Cathédrale Saint-André is the main church of Bordeaux and the seat of the Archbishop of Bordeaux. It stands on Place Pey-Berland, in the old town, and was consecrated in 1096. Most of what you see today was built in Gothic style between the 13th and 15th centuries. Inside, look up at the vaulted ceilings, the stained glass and the carvings, and listen for the organ, which is one of the largest in France. Entry is free. The bell tower is a separate building beside the cathedral, and climbing it rewards you with views over the city.
From 1096 to the 19th century
The first church on this site was consecrated by Pope Urban II in 1096. Only one wall of its nave survives from that Romanesque building. Most of the present church was rebuilt in the Gothic style over the following centuries.
In 1137, Eleanor of Aquitaine married Louis VII here, a few months before he became king of France. In 1615, Anne of Austria and Louis XIII were married in the cathedral.
During the French Revolution, the building was used to store animal feed. A fire in the 19th century damaged the interior, and its furnishings were replaced with pieces from other parish churches. Restoration work has been visible on some visits.
Inside the cathedral
The nave rises very high, with vaulted ceilings that draw the eye upward. The stained glass windows are the main reason to step inside, and the carvings and chapels reward a slow walk around the building.
The organ is one of the largest in France. Organ music can be heard during some visits, which changes the feel of the nave completely.
The cathedral is still a working church. Mass is celebrated here, and attending one gives you a view of the building in use.
The Royal Portal and the outside
The Royal Portal, on the north side, dates from the early 13th century. It is one of the finest examples of early Gothic carving in the city, so give it time before you go in.
From Place Pey-Berland, the twin spires and the flying buttresses that support the nave are easy to see. On weekends, small markets fill the square outside, and there are several cafés nearby if you want a break before or after your visit.
Tour Pey-Berland
The bell tower stands apart from the cathedral. It was built between 1440 and 1500 and rises about 66 metres. It was placed separately so that the vibrations of its bells would not shake the cathedral.
The top of the tower offers views over Bordeaux. The climb is paid, so check the current price before you go.
Light shows, concerts and sacred music
The illuminations presentation uses music and coloured projections on the building. It is ticketed, and some performances include a live choir.
For sacred music, the Saison de la Musique Sacrée takes place in autumn. It is organised by the Cathedra association. Classical concerts are also sometimes held in the evenings in summer, and choirs and visiting artists perform inside the cathedral.
Visiting on a Sunday
Sunday visits can be more limited, and visitors may have less room to walk around the interior. Check the schedule on the cathedral website before you plan your day around it.
If you want to hear the building at its fullest, a weekday visit or a Mass gives a quieter, more focused experience.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is there an entry fee?
Entry to the cathedral is free, and donations are welcome. The illuminations presentation is ticketed, and the climb up Tour Pey-Berland is paid.
How long do you need?
A visit to the cathedral takes about 1 hour. Allow extra time for the bell tower, which is a separate building beside the cathedral.
Is the cathedral wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The cathedral has a wheelchair accessible entrance, seating and restroom, and an accessible parking lot.
When is the quietest time to visit?
A weekday before lunch has been quiet, with few people inside. Sundays can be more restricted, so check the schedule before you go.
