Church of Saint-Pierre, Gothic parish church in central Caen, France
The Church of Saint-Pierre is a Gothic parish church in central Caen, notable for its 75-meter tower topped with a spire. The structure blends Gothic architecture with Renaissance elements and was built using Caen stone, giving the building its distinctive appearance.
Construction extended from the 13th to the 16th century, with the eastern apse built by Hector Sohier between 1518 and 1545. This prolonged building phase shows how architectural styles gradually shifted over these centuries.
The church is named after Saint Peter and displays a blend of Gothic and Renaissance features that visitors notice upon entering. The building reflects the religious upheavals that Caen experienced during the French Revolution, when it temporarily served a different purpose.
The church stands near the Château de Caen and the Abbey of Saint-Étienne, allowing visitors to explore several historical religious sites within a circuit walk. Its central location makes it easy to reach on foot and combine with other city sights.
Until the mid-19th century, a canal flowed past the eastern end of the church, inspiring numerous artworks now displayed in local museums. This vanished waterway shaped the appearance and character of the location for generations.
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