Valence Cathedral

Valence Cathedral is a Romanesque church built with rounded arches, sturdy columns, and multicolored stone decorations typical of Auvergne and Velay churches. The structure displays the distinctive craftsmanship of this era in southern France.

Pope Urban II consecrated this building in 1095, establishing it as an important religious site. After being destroyed during the Wars of Religion, it was reconstructed in the 17th century and restored to its current form.

The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Apollinaris, an early Christian martyr whose veneration shaped the spiritual life of the region. The choice of this saint reflects the deep religious roots that the building maintains today.

The building has limited visiting hours, so it's best to check ahead before planning your visit. The interior is compact and easy to navigate, making it manageable to explore in a short time.

Inside the ambulatory stands a Roman milestone from the via Agrippa dating to the 3rd century, demonstrating how ancient materials were reused in later construction. This stone connects two historical periods within the same space.

Location: Valence

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

Address: place des Ormeaux

GPS coordinates: 44.93167,4.88944

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:19