Église Saint Trophime d'Arles

Church in Arles

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Wolfgang Staudt

In the heart of Arles' historic center, St. Trophime Church stands as a powerful symbol of medieval spirituality and artistic brilliance. With its monumental Romanesque façade, crowned by the famous Last Judgement portal, and its serene cloister echoing with centuries of prayer, it's easy to see why this church is one of the must-see places in Arles. From imperial coronations to monastic reforms, St. Trophime has witnessed the grand sweep of Arles' history while remaining a place of quiet reflection and architectural wonder.

The church's harmony of Romanesque solidity and Gothic refinement makes it a highlight of any walking tour of Arles. Visitors are often struck by how seamlessly it integrates with the city's Roman and medieval heritage — standing just steps from the Place de la République and surrounded by other UNESCO-listed monuments that together form one of the most evocative ensembles in southern France.

History and Significance of St. Trophime Church
Things to See and Do in St. Trophime Church
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting St. Trophime Church
Is St. Trophime Church Worth Visiting?
Nearby Attractions to St. Trophime Church

History and Significance of St. Trophime Church

Built between the 12th and 15th centuries on the site of a 5th-century basilica dedicated to St. Stephen, St. Trophime Church reflects Arles' long-standing religious significance. Named after the city's first bishop, St. Trophimus, whose relics were enshrined here in 1152, the church became a focal point for devotion and power in medieval Provence. Its prestige was amplified by two imperial coronations — Emperor Frederick Barbarossa in 1178 and Emperor Charles IV in 1365 — events that cemented Arles' place on Europe's sacred and political map.

Originally serving as the cathedral of Arles, St. Trophime was demoted to parish status in 1801 following the French Revolution and later elevated to a minor basilica in 1882. It also became a vital stop along the Way of Saint James, the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. In 1981, its inclusion in the “Arles, Roman and Romanesque Monuments” UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized not only its artistic value but also its role in shaping European Christian heritage.

Things to See and Do in St. Trophime Church

The west portal of St. Trophime is a masterpiece of Romanesque sculpture, depicting the Last Judgement in extraordinary detail — Christ in Majesty surrounded by apostles, angels, and the souls of the saved and the damned. Each carving radiates expressive power, offering a glimpse into the medieval imagination and the theological vision of its time. Inside, the church features a soaring Romanesque nave and a Gothic choir added in the 15th century, creating a graceful dialogue between two architectural eras.

Don't miss the adjoining cloister, an exquisite contrast of styles where 12th-century Romanesque carvings meet 14th-century Gothic vaulting. The capitals and reliefs tell biblical stories and celebrate Arles' patron saints in intricate stonework. The cloister once served as the living and working space for the Canons, embodying Pope Gregory's call for a disciplined, semi-monastic life. Visitors can also admire a collection of sarcophagi, Baroque paintings, and tapestries spanning centuries, reflecting the church's evolving artistic identity. This spot is one of the top sights in Arles, where faith, art, and architecture unite in perfect harmony.

How to Get There

St. Trophime Church is located in the Place de la République, the central square of Arles' old town. It's an easy 10-minute walk from Arles railway station via Rue de la République. Visitors arriving by car can use Parking du Centre or Parking des Lices, both conveniently located within a few minutes’ walk. The church’s bell tower rises above the surrounding buildings, making it easy to find.

Practical Tips on Visiting St. Trophime Church

Best time to visit St. Trophime Church: Early morning or late afternoon for the most atmospheric light and quieter moments inside.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free entry to the church; a small fee for the cloister (usually around €3–€5).
Opening hours: Typically open daily; hours vary seasonally.
Official website: www.arlestourisme.com
How long to spend: 45 minutes to 1 hour to explore both the church and cloister.
Accessibility: Flat entry to the church; some uneven surfaces in the cloister.
Facilities: Gift shop nearby; cafés and restrooms available in the square.
Photography tip: Capture the intricate portal reliefs in soft light; the cloister offers beautiful shadow play around midday.
Guided tours: Available through the Arles Tourist Office; highly recommended for deeper historical context.
Nearby food options: Numerous cafés and bistros line Place de la République, ideal for a meal after your visit.

Is St. Trophime Church Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. St. Trophime Church is one of the top attractions in Arles and a cornerstone of its UNESCO World Heritage ensemble. Its sculptural grandeur, spiritual depth, and artistic diversity make it not just a place of worship but a living museum of medieval art. Whether you're drawn to its Romanesque carvings, its peaceful cloister, or its echoes of imperial history, St. Trophime offers a profound experience of the city's sacred past.

Nearby Attractions to St. Trophime Church

Saint-Trophime Cloister – Adjacent to the church, a masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic sculpture.
Arles Obelisk – A 4th-century Roman monument rising from the center of Place de la République.
Sainte-Anne Church – A Gothic former parish church now hosting cultural exhibitions.
Réattu Museum – Showcasing works by Jacques Réattu, Picasso, and contemporary artists.
Arles Amphitheatre – A vast Roman arena still used for performances and festivals.

The Église Saint Trophime d'Arles appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Arles!

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