Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Senlis

Located 45km from Paris, Senlis Cathedral is one of the smallest cathedrals in France (70 m long, 24 m under vault)! Built over four centuries, it is a perfect example of the evolution of the Gothic style from primitive to radiant.

Built on the site of earlier sanctuaries at the instigation of Bishop Pierre, Senlis Cathedral underwent many changes over the centuries: work began in 1151 and the north façade was not completed until 1560. In 1504, lightning struck the roof frame, setting the building ablaze and causing the vaults to collapse. Louis XII and François I put their money where their mouths were to rebuild the upper sections, raising them by 6 m, doubling the nave?s aisles and adorning the side facades with rich flamboyant decoration. Restoration continued until 1515, with the addition of the Sacré-C?ur chapel in 1671 and the neo-classical decoration of the choir in 1777.

With its Portal de la Vierge, a masterpiece of 12th-century Gothic sculpture, its remarkable 13th-century Gothic South Tower, and its late Gothic transept facades, Notre-Dame de Senlis ranks among the most beautiful cathedrals in France!

A special feature: it houses the relic of the jawbone of Saint-Rieul. A key figure in local history, the first Bishop of Senlis was the evangelizer of Gaul in the 3rd century and gave his name to many monuments. When Clovis, the first Christian king, came to visit his tomb, he wanted to take a few souvenirs with him. The bishops agreed to pull a tooth from his jaw, which miraculously began to bleed. Never mind, Clovis left with the tooth. But when he tried to leave the city, the gates closed on him.

DATAtourisme France