Tbe Cathédrale de St-Pierre et St-Paul de Nantes is just behind the Chîateau des Ducs de Bretagne, at the Place Saint-Pierre (map).

Note: Sadly, the cathedral suffered a severe fire in July 2020 and is closed for renovations. The 17th century organ was destroyed, along with some of the historic stained glass windows.

Construction began in 1434, on the spot where an earlier cathedral had stood. Starting with the facade, the previous Romanesque structure was removed and replaced with the Gothic cathedral. Work continued through the 17th and 18th centuries, and the building was completed in 1891.

Although damaged in World War II, and later by a 1972 fire, the cathedral has been fully restored.

The facade includes two square towers and austere exterior decoration. The three doors and an external pulpit provide decorative elements.

Cathédral de St-Pierre et St-Paul, Nantes.

The cathedral is perhaps best known for its lovely interior. At 100 meters (328 feet) in length, it is an impressive sight. Unlike most Breton cathedrals, the interior is made of white stone, rather than granite. This allows for greater height, and the cathedral seems to soar.

The cathedral is also known for the 16th century tomb of François II. Commissioned by his daughter, Anne de Bretagne, the tomb contains significant statues of not only François and his wife, Marguerite of Foix, but also numerous angels, animals, the four cardinal virtues, saints, and mourners.

 

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