
Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur Narbonne
A monumental, unfinished Gothic cathedral in Narbonne, boasting a soaring choir, exquisite art, and panoramic city views from its tower.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Hear the historic 'Bourdon' bell.

Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur Narbonne
Best Time
Hear the historic 'Bourdon' bell.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental, unfinished Gothic cathedral in Narbonne, boasting a soaring choir, exquisite art, and panoramic city views from its tower.
"A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, this unfinished cathedral is an absolute must-see in the South of France."

Climb the Tower!
162 steps to an amazing city view. Worth the effort! :athletic_shoe:
Whisper in the Chapter Room
Experience the curious acoustic phenomenon – whisper in a corner and be heard across the room! :microphone:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Soaring Choir
Interior
The 5th highest choir in France, reaching over 41m, offers a breathtaking sense of scale and Gothic artistry.

Gothic Altarpiece
Axial Chapel
A 14th-century masterpiece of European Gothic sculpture, showcasing intricate detail and artistic mastery.

Archbishops' Palace-Museum
Adjacent complex
An essential ensemble featuring medieval towers and buildings, offering historical context and stunning city vistas.

The 'Bourdon' Bell
South Tower
This massive 5-ton bell, the only one to survive the revolution, chimes daily in memory of a historic plague.
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Planning Your Visit
Unfinished Grandeur
Beyond the Altar
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Climb the Tower!
162 steps to an amazing city view. Worth the effort! :athletic_shoe:
Whisper in the Chapter Room
Experience the curious acoustic phenomenon – whisper in a corner and be heard across the room! :microphone:
Explore the Palace
The adjacent Archbishops' Palace is a must-see, forming a unique historical ensemble. :building_construction:
Admire the Tapestries
Exquisite gobelins add warmth and grandeur to the Gothic interior. :thread:
Tips
from all over the internet
Climb the Tower!
162 steps to an amazing city view. Worth the effort! :athletic_shoe:
Whisper in the Chapter Room
Experience the curious acoustic phenomenon – whisper in a corner and be heard across the room! :microphone:
Explore the Palace
The adjacent Archbishops' Palace is a must-see, forming a unique historical ensemble. :building_construction:
Admire the Tapestries
Exquisite gobelins add warmth and grandeur to the Gothic interior. :thread:
Unfinished Beauty
Appreciate its unique history as an unfinished masterpiece of Gothic architecture. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur's dramatic Gothic architecture and rich artistic treasures, particularly its unfinished state and the stunning views from the tower. While not vast, its scale is secondary to its splendor, offering a deeply artistic and historical experience.
"Fantastic 13th and 14th century cathedral which is Narbonne's most prestigious monument and a major building in the Gothic style of southern France. Its construction was ordered in 1268 by Pope Clement IV, former Archbishop of Narbonne and advisor to Saint-Louis. It was dedicated to the young Spanish martyrs Justus and Pasteur. Its choir, the 5th highest in France, reaches over 41 m under the keystone, and the Gothic altarpiece (14th century) of the axial chapel is a masterpiece of European Gothic sculpture. The cathedral forms a unique ensemble with the Archbishops' Palace-Museum. It connects with the current city center, an essential place in Narbonne life where you can admire the 12th century Palais-Vieux building, the Madeleine keep built in the 13th century and connected by an arch spanning the Passage de l'Ancre to the Saint-Martial tower from the early 14th century. At the top of the south tower is the "Bourdon," a large bell weighing 5 tons. It was the only bell to escape melting during the revolutionary days of 1793. Around 4 p.m., the Saint-Just bourdon chimes its deep notes above the rooftops in memory of the plague epidemic that devastated the city in 1652. Despite various attempts, the nave of this cathedral was never completed; it was to extend for a hundred meters more. The cloister galleries are interesting as well to discover.
On the upper floor of the Chapel of the Annunciation, in a brick-vaulted room, called "Chapter Room" features a square-shaped room covered by a brick dome that creates a curious acoustic phenomenon of sound propagation from one corner of the room to the other. Indeed, if you whisper in a corner facing the wall, you can be heard perfectly on the opposite side!
The Treasury brings together pieces from the Carolingian period to the modern era: a 9th-century carved ivory Gospel plaque, an 11th-century Hispano-Moresque pyxis, the illuminated pontifical of Archbishop Pierre de la Jugie, the Flemish tapestry of the Creation circa 1500, as well as other exceptional liturgical objects that testify to the great wealth of the archbishops of Narbonne !
Finally, save your legs and your breath to climb the 162 steps of the magnificent spiral staircase. At 42 meters high, you will enjoy an exceptional view of the city of Narbonne, from the coast to the Pyrenees. The keep, one of the best preserved in the south of France, is a powerful square tower, at the corner of the Palais Neuf, built from 1295 to 1306 by Archbishop Gilles Aycelin, also an advisor to King Philip IV Le Bel. It consists of four rooms : the hemispherical room called Treasury room, the king's chamber and the defense room ..."
Enjoy life
"Though relatively modest in size, the Narbonne Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Just et Saint-Pasteur) leaves a lasting impression through its rich ornamentation and artistic treasures. Among its standout features are the exquisite gobelins—tapestries that add warmth and grandeur to the Gothic interior. The space, while not vast, feels intimate and regal, thanks to the abundance of decorative details and ecclesiastical jewels. It’s a hidden gem where scale is secondary to splendor."
Felipe Buitrago
"Amazing place. I’m not into churches but this is pretty dramatic and different. The walk around it surprises you with al different. Styles."
Nicky
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cathedral is located in the center of Narbonne, France, making it easily accessible on foot if you are already in the city. If arriving by car, there are parking options nearby, though navigating narrow city streets might require some patience. Public transport options within Narbonne are limited, so walking is often the most convenient way to reach it once you're in the vicinity.
Yes, there are several parking areas around the city center of Narbonne, some of which are within walking distance of the Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur. It's advisable to check local parking signs for availability and fees, as street parking can be limited.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, and it's always best to check the official website or local listings before your visit. Generally, cathedrals are open during daylight hours, but specific times for the treasury or tower climbs might differ.
Entry to the main cathedral area is often free, but there might be a fee for specific sections like the treasury, museum, or tower climb. It's recommended to check for any admission fees for these attractions to plan accordingly.
Yes, there is typically a fee to climb the south tower of the Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur for the panoramic views. The climb involves 162 steps, and the fee usually covers access to this unique vantage point.
The Archbishops' Palace-Museum is often a separate entity or has its own ticketing system, though it forms a unique ensemble with the cathedral. It's advisable to inquire about combined tickets or separate admission fees for the museum.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Its most striking feature is that it was never completed, despite construction starting in 1272. It boasts a soaring 41m high choir, a masterpiece Gothic altarpiece, and unique features like an acoustic 'Chapter Room' and a massive bell.
Visitors should not miss the impressive Gothic altarpiece in the axial chapel, the stunning Flemish tapestry of the Creation, and the unique acoustic phenomenon in the 'Chapter Room.' The treasury also holds significant historical artifacts.
Absolutely! The climb of 162 steps leads to an exceptional 42-meter high view of Narbonne, stretching from the coast to the Pyrenees. It's a highlight for many visitors.
In a specific room on the upper floor of the Chapel of the Annunciation, a unique acoustic effect allows whispers in one corner to be heard perfectly on the opposite side. It's a fascinating architectural quirk.
Yes, the Treasury houses remarkable pieces from the Carolingian period to modern times, including a 9th-century ivory Gospel plaque, an 11th-century Hispano-Moresque pyxis, and exceptional liturgical objects.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the grandeur of the unfinished facade, the intricate details of the Gothic altarpiece, the soaring heights of the choir, and the panoramic city views from the south tower. The stained-glass windows also offer beautiful light play.
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted inside the cathedral, but it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions, especially regarding flash photography, which can be disruptive or damaging to artifacts.
Late afternoon light can be beautiful for exterior shots, highlighting the stone textures. Inside, the stained-glass windows are most vibrant when the sun is at a good angle, often mid-morning or mid-afternoon.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the climb up the tower might be challenging for very young children, older kids will likely enjoy the rewarding panoramic views. The Archbishops' Palace-Museum offers further exploration of medieval life. Consider focusing on the visual aspects – the grand architecture, the detailed sculptures, and the colorful tapestries – to keep children engaged.
🏛️ History Buffs
Delve into the Archbishops' Palace-Museum, exploring its various towers and buildings that showcase centuries of architectural evolution and defensive strategies. The treasury's collection of artifacts, spanning from the Carolingian era to more recent times, offers a tangible link to the past. Don't miss the historical significance of the 'Bourdon' bell and its daily chime.
📸 Photographers
The climb to the south tower is essential for capturing panoramic cityscapes, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. The surrounding Archbishops' Palace complex also offers picturesque views and interesting architectural details. Remember to check for any flash restrictions inside the cathedral.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unfinished Masterpiece
Despite its incomplete nave, the cathedral is a significant monument in southern French Gothic style. Its construction was initiated by Pope Clement IV, who was formerly the Archbishop of Narbonne. The dedication to the young Spanish martyrs Justus and Pasteur adds a layer of historical and religious significance. The sheer scale of the existing structure and the intricate details within its completed sections make it a compelling site for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Exploring the cathedral offers a glimpse into medieval ambition and the realities of historical urban planning. The unfinished walls serve as a constant reminder of the past, inviting contemplation on what might have been. It's a place where the grandeur of the design is palpable, even in its incomplete state, making it a truly unique experience.
Treasures Within: Art and Acoustics
A particularly intriguing feature is the 'Chapter Room' located on the upper floor of the Chapel of the Annunciation. This square room, covered by a brick dome, possesses a curious acoustic phenomenon. If you whisper in one corner facing the wall, your voice can be heard perfectly on the opposite side. This natural amplification effect is a delightful surprise for visitors and a testament to clever medieval design.
The Treasury itself is a treasure trove, showcasing pieces ranging from the Carolingian period to modern times. Highlights include a 9th-century carved ivory Gospel plaque, an 11th-century Hispano-Moresque pyxis, and the illuminated pontifical of Archbishop Pierre de la Jugie. These objects offer a tangible connection to centuries of religious and artistic heritage.
Panoramic Views and Medieval Fortifications
The tower is part of the larger Archbishops' Palace complex, which includes impressive medieval fortifications. The 'Madeleine' keep, built in the 13th century, and the Saint-Martial tower from the early 14th century, are significant structures that speak to the defensive and residential importance of the palace. The Palais-Vieux building, dating back to the 12th century, also forms part of this historical ensemble.
At the top of the south tower resides the 'Bourdon,' a massive bell weighing 5 tons. This bell is historically significant as it was the only one to escape melting during the revolutionary days of 1793. Around 4 p.m. daily, it chimes its deep notes above the rooftops, a tradition that commemorates the devastating plague epidemic of 1652.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit