Cathédrale Saint-Étienne d'Auxerre

The Cathédrale Saint-Étienne d'Auxerre, or Auxerre Cathedral, is an impressive Romanesque-Gothic Catholic church located in the center of the small Burgundy town of Auxerre. A highlight of the ancient Roman region of Gaul, the cathedral was built in the 11th century and served as the site of a major local pilgrimage for centuries. Though much of the Romanesque architecture remains, other parts of the cathedral were restored in gothic style in the late 15th century. Inside, visitors will find stunning stained-glass windows, Gothic-style sculptures, an 18th-century dome, and even a crypt. Most notably, visitors can explore the site of the former Bishop’s Palace, a brick and stone fortress-like structure located on the southeast side of the cathedral. The fortress was used by the archbishop of Sens from the 15th century until 1902. Overall the Auxerre Cathedral and its environs provide a unique insight into the past of Auxerre and the wider Burgundy region.