Gothic Dominican church with the famous palm tree vault, cloister and refectory.
The Dominican order was founded in Toulouse in 1215 and the convent of the Jacobins was built from 1230 to the 14th century. The brick Gothic church is divided into two aisles by a row of slender columns, and the apse columns spread into a vault called the palm tree. The relics of Thomas Aquinas rest under the altar. The cloister, the chapter house and the chapel of Saint Antoninus have restored medieval decoration, and the complex hosts concerts of the Piano aux Jacobins festival each September. The brick bell tower is a major landmark on the skyline of Toulouse.
| Admission | About EUR 5 (~$5.75) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Typically daily about 10:00-18:00 (confirm on the website) |
| Typical visit | 45-60 minutes |
| Best time | Late afternoon for stained glass |
| Getting there | Metro line A or B to Jean-Jaurès, then 8 minutes on foot; or Capitole then 5 minutes |
| Address | Rue Lakanal, 31000 Toulouse, France |
Location
Rue Lakanal, 31000 Toulouse, France
43.6035, 1.4402 View on map
Highlights
- Palm tree vault
- Relics of Saint Thomas Aquinas
- Restored cloister
- Chapel of Saint Antoninus
- Piano aux Jacobins festival
Tips for visiting
- Go in the late afternoon for coloured light from the high windows.
- Combine with Saint-Sernin and the Capitole on one walking day.
- Check the website for temporary exhibitions, which may have a separate fee.
- Piano aux Jacobins tickets sell out; book weeks ahead.
When to visit
Mid-afternoon to evening for light on the vault.
Accessibility
The church is accessible at ground level; the cloister has some uneven paving.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is the church free?
The church is generally free and the cloister carries a small fee; confirm on the site.
Where are the Thomas Aquinas relics?
They are in a shrine under the high altar of the church.