Quimper Cathedral
Bretagne
Quimper Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral of Saint Corentin, is a Roman Catholic cathedral and a national monument located in Quimper, Brittany, France. It serves as the seat of the Diocese of Quimper and Léon and honors Saint Corentin, its first bishop. The cathedral is architecturally unique for its slight bend in the middle, designed to avoid a swampy area during its construction, which gives it an unusual and striking silhouette. Construction began in 1239 with the choir commissioned by Bishop Rainaud and continued through the 15th and 16th centuries, with significant contributions under Duke Jean V. The building suffered a severe fire in 1620 that damaged the bell tower, and restoration efforts continued through the 19th century and beyond. The cathedral features multiple portals, including the richly decorated north portals, the south portal known as Porche de la Vierge, and an impressive western façade with two tall spires and intricate sculptures including a statue of Christ and King Gradlon. The cathedral is also a key stop on the Tro Breizh pilgrimage route, highlighting its religious and cultural significance in Brittany. Its Gothic style, combined with centuries of construction and restoration, creates a cohesive yet complex architectural monument that attracts many visitors.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to visit Quimper Cathedral during daylight hours to fully appreciate its Gothic architecture and stained glass windows. The cathedral is open daily from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Booking guided tours or checking local schedules for special religious events can enhance the experience. Early spring and late summer are ideal times to avoid crowds and enjoy mild weather. Discounts may be available for groups and pilgrims on the Tro Breizh route. Advance ticket purchase is recommended during peak tourist seasons.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral’s nave and choir are not aligned; the slight bend was to preserve an older chapel and tomb beneath the choir.
- •The western façade features two spires rising over 75 meters, framing a statue of the legendary King Gradlon.
- •A green devil was reportedly seen by locals in the flames during the devastating 1620 fire.
- •The cathedral is one of the seven cathedrals included in the traditional Tro Breizh pilgrimage in Brittany.
History
The site of Quimper Cathedral has hosted several religious buildings over centuries, beginning with a pre-Romanesque cathedral under Bishop Félix in the 9th century.
The Romanesque cathedral, attested from the 12th century, was eventually replaced by the Gothic structure starting in 1239.
Construction occurred in phases, with the choir built first, followed by the nave and façade in the 15th century.
A major fire in 1620 severely damaged parts of the cathedral, including the bell tower.
The French Revolution interrupted restoration efforts, but work resumed after 1801.
The cathedral underwent significant restorations in the 19th and 20th centuries, including structural consolidations and restoration of its original polychromy.
The cathedral’s slight curve was purposefully designed to preserve an older chapel containing the tomb of Alain Canhiart.
Place Guide
North Portals1475-1479
The cathedral’s north side has three portals: the Porche des Baptêmes leading to the north nave with a double door separated by a trumeau; the Porche de la Chandeleur built between 1475 and 1479 featuring acanthus leaf carvings; and a smaller portal formerly giving access to the ossuary and cemetery, now unused.
Western Façade and PortalFirst stone laid 1424
The west façade is dominated by two soaring spires and a magnificent portal adorned with angelic sculptures on the arch’s voussoirs. The trumeau features a statue of Christ blessing while holding a globe and standing on a demon, replacing a destroyed statue of Duke Jean V. Above the arch stands a statue of King Gradlon, symbolizing local legend and heritage.
South Portal (Porche de la Vierge)
Known as the Porche de la Vierge, the south portal is a notable entrance richly decorated and dedicated to the Virgin Mary, serving as a significant architectural and devotional feature of the cathedral.
Contact
Phone: 02 98 64 91 84
