The best way to approach the Cathédrale Sainte-Croix d'Orléans is from the Rue Jeanne d'Arc (map). The beautiful buildings and the flag-lined street lead to the impressive facade of this large Gothic structure.

Sainte-Croix d'Orléans and the Rue Jeanne d'Arc.

Like many French cathedrals, Sainte-Croix d'Orléans (or Holy Cross) was built and rebuilt several times over the centuries. There may have been a church on this site since the 4th century. A Romanesque cathedral was built in the 13th century, and the church was rebuilt over the 17th to 19th centuries in its current Gothic style. The Wars of Religion (16th century) and other conflicts damaged the church multiple times, but it was always rebuilt.

Joan of Arc attended mass here in 1429, during the famous Battle of Orléans, where under her leadership the seige of Orléans was lifted after only 9 days. There are multiple reminders of Joan of Arc in Orléans, and she is surely the city's favorite daughter (even though she was not from Orléans). More...

The cathedral's soaring nave is lined with colorful banners, and the height accentuates the magnificence of the building. 19th century stained glass windows in the church tell the story of Joan of Arc, starting with her childhood in Domrémy and ending with her conviction and burning at the stake in Rouen. And of course they also feature her liberating the city of Orléans. The stained glass windows were removed during World War II and thus were preserved when the city was bombed and heavily damaged.

In front of the church stands a bas relief statue of Joan of Arc with the inscription, "Elle n'avait passé ses humbles dix-neuf ans que de quatre à cinq mois et sa cendre charnelle fut dispersée au vent." She was barely four or five months past her 19th birthday, and her bodily ashes were dispersed to the wind.

In the summer months, the Cathedral offers a colorful sound and light show that focuses on scenes inspired by Joan of Arc. Check with the Tourist Information Office for specific dates and times.

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