A cathedral of mismatched Romanesque and Gothic parts, with an off-centre nave.
The cathedral Saint-Étienne is the seat of the archbishop of Toulouse. The building combines a Romanesque nave from the 13th century with a taller Gothic choir started in 1272, and the two do not line up, giving the interior a skewed look. Features include a rose window, stained glass of the 16th century, Gobelin tapestries and a 17th-century organ. The Renaissance garden beside the east end offers a quiet bench. A short walk leads to Rue de Metz and the Augustins museum.
| Admission | Free (~$0) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Typically daily about 8:00-19:00 (confirm) |
| Typical visit | 30 minutes |
| Best time | Morning |
| Getting there | Metro line B to Carmes, then 8 minutes; Tisséo bus stop Saint-Étienne |
| Address | Place Saint-Étienne, 31000 Toulouse, France |
Location
Place Saint-Étienne, 31000 Toulouse, France
43.5999, 1.4507 View on map
Highlights
- Off-axis nave and choir
- Stained glass
- 17th-century organ
Tips for visiting
- Enter by the west door and walk to the choir to see the mismatch.
- Respect services; the cathedral hosts several Masses a day.
When to visit
Morning light.
Accessibility
A ramp exists at the main entrance; floors are uneven.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is it free?
Yes.