Cathédrale de St-Sacerdos, Sarlat, France | ||
This lovely cathedral with its dramatic tower is a beautiful landmark in the center of Sarlat. | ||
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The Cathédrale of St-Sacerdos is right in the middle of medieval Sarlat (map), and its tower is often-photographed. Dating from the 17th century, but on a site where an abbey church was first built in the 9th century, this historic building's bell tower dates from that earlier time. Saint Sacerdos was the Bishop of Limoges in the 8th century, and his relics were brought to the cathedral in Sarlat, giving it its name. Next to the cathedral is the former bishopric or Bishops' Palace.
And just behind the cathedral stands the mysterious Lanterne des Morts, a cylindrical building whose function remains a mystery. Built in the middle of a cemetery in the 12th century, its architecture is unique in France. Was it a memorial to the dead, or did it serve some other function? Walking around the Lanterne provides some lovely views of the cathedral and the surrounding area. You can also get a lovely view of St-Sacerdos—and better appreciate its size relative to the other buildings in Sarlat—from the Ascenseur Panoramique in the former Église Sainte-Marie. The Cathédrale is just around the corner from the Sarlat Tourist Information Office, which can provide information about guided tours.
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