Cathédrale Saint-Maurice d'Angers

Cathedral in Angers

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Paolo Carnassale

Perched atop a hill overlooking the Maine River, the Cathédrale Saint-Maurice d’Angers is a testament to the city’s rich architectural and spiritual heritage. Constructed between the 11th and 16th centuries, the cathedral showcases a harmonious blend of Romanesque foundations and Gothic innovations, particularly the Angevin Gothic style characterized by its distinctive ribbed vaults. The west façade is adorned with sculptures of Saint Maurice and his companions, reflecting the cathedral’s dedication to the Roman legionary who became a Christian martyr.

Inside, visitors are greeted by a luminous nave, where 12th and 13th-century stained glass windows cast colorful patterns across the stone floor. Notably, the transept houses a window depicting Saint Julian, considered a masterpiece of French medieval glasswork. The choir and transept, completed in the 13th century, feature intricate vaulting and a Baroque altar canopy added in the 18th century, enhancing the cathedral’s grandeur.

Beyond its architectural splendor, the cathedral holds historical significance as the burial site of notable figures like René of Anjou and Margaret of Anjou. Its collection of tapestries, including works from the 15th to 18th centuries, adds to its cultural richness. As a living monument, the Cathédrale Saint-Maurice continues to inspire awe, offering a profound connection to the spiritual and artistic endeavors of past centuries.

The Cathédrale Saint-Maurice d'Angers appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Angers!

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