Lisieux Cathedral, Gothic cathedral in Lisieux, France
Lisieux Cathedral is a Gothic structure featuring three main portals along its western facade and two towers topped by a 17th-century spire. The interior contains a nave, an ambulatory with radiating chapels, and an axial chapel extending from the sanctuary.
Bishop Arnulf initiated construction in 1160, replacing an earlier building destroyed in 1136. The structure became Normandy's first Gothic cathedral and has stood as a landmark in the city ever since.
The cathedral holds strong ties to Bishop Pierre Cauchon, whose tomb rests in the axial chapel as a reminder of his episcopal years in Lisieux. Visitors can sense this historical connection while walking through the interior.
The building is straightforward to navigate, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace from the western entrance through to the back chapels. Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architectural details and interior spaces.
The cathedral survived the heavy World War II bombardments that devastated much of Lisieux, remaining nearly untouched through the conflict. This resilience makes it a remarkable witness to the city's ordeal during that turbulent period.
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