Senez Cathedral

Senez Cathedral is a Roman Catholic place of worship built in Romanesque style with a distinctive sundial carved into the western facade dating to 1673. Inside, carved wooden altars and large tapestries decorate the interior spaces.

Construction of this cathedral began in the 12th century and continued for over a hundred years before completion. Religious conflicts in later centuries damaged the structure significantly, destroying its bell tower and leaving lasting marks on the building.

The cathedral houses a remarkable collection of tapestries from the 17th century that fill the space with color and craftsmanship. These wall hangings reflect the artistic traditions that have been valued and maintained in this small community over time.

The cathedral stands in a very small mountain village with just a few hundred residents in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region. Access is straightforward, but note that facilities nearby are limited and you should confirm opening conditions before visiting.

In March 1815, Napoleon Bonaparte stopped here to admire the tapestries, a fleeting moment that connected this remote location to major history. This brief visit has remained in local memory and makes the cathedral more than just a religious building.

Location: Senez

Inception: 1176

GPS coordinates: 43.91306,6.40667

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:22