Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral — Attraction in Lille

I always go to a church, cathedral, place of worship whenever I go to a new town or city, and this cathedral is worthy of your attention.

Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral in Lille, France, might not be as famous as its Parisian counterpart, but it's certainly worth a visit for several reasons: This stunning cathedral is a masterpiece of Neo-Gothic architecture, built in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its intricate facade, soaring towers, and beautiful stained glass windows are a testament to the craftsmanship of the era. The cathedral features a distinctive "trellis" (treille) design on its facade, which gives it its name. This unusual feature sets it apart from other Gothic-style cathedrals. Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille is a place of pilgrimage, particularly for those devoted to the Virgin Mary. The cathedral houses a revered statue of the Virgin and Child, known as "Our Lady of the Trellis." The cathedral's serene and peaceful atmosphere provides a space for reflection and prayer, regardless of one's religious beliefs. I was here for almost an hour enjoying the tranquility. Artistic Treasures: The cathedral boasts exquisite stained glass windows, created by renowned artists. These colorful windows depict biblical scenes and religious figures, adding to the cathedral's beauty and spiritual significance. Inside, you'll find sculptures, paintings, and other religious artworks that enhance the cathedral's artistic and historical value. In the bustling city of Lille, the cathedral offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can escape the noise and crowds. The cathedral's quiet atmosphere and beautiful surroundings provide a space for contemplation and introspection.

Whether you're interested in architecture, religious history, art, or simply seeking a moment of peace, Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral is a worthwhile destination in Lille and will not...

This cathedral is like the French smalltown version of La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. A cathedral in name, but not spirit, under construction for an incredibly long time and with a jarring mix of architectural styles that don't work well together. Like someone couldn't quite decide what they wanted it to look like.

Apparently, part of this building was destroyed during the war and has been under construction/renovation since, until the late 90s when they added the positively awful façade that so many people dislike. It reminded me of 20th-century Anglican churches in England.

In a sense, it would be important not to judge a book by its cover, because yes, the exterior is pretty ugly. But inside is interesting with nice light, and much more neo-Gothic architecture and style.

The chapel is the prettiest section. Interestingly, and possibly weird, is the addition of modern art sprinkled sporadically around and very odd lighting choices (neon red is certainly a peculiar artistic choice). It's not very cohesive, so if you are looking for a traditional French cathedral, it's best to look elsewhere. But if you want something a little different, the interior is worth a look. And you have to love Jeanne d'Arc having such a prominent statue.

It is not very big and won't take a great deal of time to explore. If you have nothing else to do or are just wandering in the area, I would suggest a peek inside, but I don't think it's worth a special trip...

I had the pleasure of visiting Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral today, and it left me in awe. This cathedral is a stunning blend of history, art, and spirituality — from its contemporary exterior to the richly detailed interiors.

The stained-glass windows are absolutely breathtaking, filling the space with color and light in a way that feels both majestic and intimate. Each chapel is beautifully preserved, with intricate altars, ornate mosaics, and artwork that tells centuries of stories. One of the highlights was the altar under the towering stained glass panels, glowing softly with red votive lights — a sacred and serene corner that invites you to pause and reflect.

I also appreciated the scale model of the cathedral displayed inside, which offered a fascinating look into the architectural vision and construction history. The mix of Gothic and modern design throughout the cathedral makes it truly unique — especially the bold, minimalist main altar contrasted against the more traditional chapels.

Whether you’re interested in architecture, religion, or simply want a quiet, inspiring place to explore in Lille, Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille is a must-visit. It’s a space where past and present coexist beautifully — peaceful, grand, and...