Saint-Étienne Cathedral

You’re now standing in front of Saint-Étienne Cathedral, which is the tallest building in the city, rising 68 meters. When it was completed, it was also considered one of the most beautiful Gothic buildings in France.

But its history is far from simple. The first structure was built in the 5th century, but it was destroyed by fire a few centuries later. A second cathedral was built, but it suffered the same fate a century afterward. What you see today is a Romanesque cathedral, rebuilt in the 11th century, though only the crypt remains today. The current cathedral wasn’t completed until 1543, commissioned by Bishop Guillaume de Seignelay, and showcases a stunning Gothic style that drew significant attention at the time. In fact, it took over 300 years to build.

One of its most unique features is its single tower, giving it an asymmetrical look, unlike the typical two-tower design. The building is decorated with exquisite sculptures, stained-glass windows dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries, including a rare medieval painting of Christ on horseback. It’s truly a must-see during your visit to Auxerre. Feel free to step inside and explore it further!