Pendentif de Valence

The Pendentif de Valence is a Renaissance building with a distinctive domed structure marked by smooth transitions from the walls to the vaulted ceiling. This construction from 1548 sits within the cloister of Saint-Apollinaire Cathedral and demonstrates innovative building techniques of that era.

The building was constructed in 1548 for the Mistral family and reflects the architectural shift happening at that time. Later it was repurposed for different uses before the city acquired and preserved it in 1831.

The monument reflects how Renaissance ideas arrived in France and blended with local building traditions of the time. You can observe today how this new architectural language shaped the region's built environment.

The monument sits at 11 Rue du Clos Gaillard and is not regularly open, appearing mainly during heritage days and cultural events. You should plan your visit in advance to avoid disappointment.

The building displays the first known use of continuous pendentive domes where the transitions to the cupola flow seamlessly. This technique was rare at the time and stood among the earliest examples in France.

Location: Valence

Architectural style: Renaissance architecture

Address: 1 place du pendentif

GPS coordinates: 44.93190,4.88972

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:08