Collégiale Notre-Dame

Church in Beaune

Beaune - Notre-Dame — CC BY-SA 4.0 / Johan Allard

The Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame, a basilica inspired by Cluniac architecture, stands as a significant historical and religious landmark in the Burgundy region. Constructed in the twelfth century under the patronage of the Dukes of Burgundy, who held their parliament in the city, this church was dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is now classified as a historic monument and is celebrated as one of the last Romanesque churches in Burgundy.

Construction of the church extended into the early 13th century, adhering to the Cluniac design principles. Throughout the centuries, Notre-Dame has been enhanced with additions such as the Saint-Léger chapel, notable for its murals from the early sixteenth century. In the late sixteenth century, the original Gothic spire was replaced with an imperial roof. The nineteenth century saw extensive restorations led by the famous architect Viollet-le-Duc, preserving and enhancing its historic charm.

Traditionally served by a college of secular canons, who resided communally in houses that are still preserved, the collegiate church has been a major pilgrimage site since its inception. Pilgrims are particularly drawn to the revered black polychrome Virgin, carved from fruitwood and darkened over the centuries. Inside, visitors can admire the exquisite architectural details such as the capitals on the right pillars of the nave, which depict scenes from Noah’s Ark and the stoning of Saint Stephen. Additionally, the church houses a remarkable collection of tapestries that depict the life of the Virgin Mary, intricately woven in silk and wool across 19 panels in the choir, offering a glimpse into the rich religious artistry of the period.

The Collégiale Notre-Dame appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Beaune!

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Visiting Collégiale Notre-Dame

Hours:

April to October: Monday-Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday-Friday and Sunday: 2.30pm-5.30pm – except during religious ceremonies / no admission on Saturdays.

Address: Collégiale Notre-Dame de Beaune, Place du Général Leclerc, Beaune, France

Duration: 20 minutes