Cathédrale Saint-Etienne de Sens — Attraction in Sens

The Cathedral St Etienne is the main attraction in Sens. This cathedral is the first Gothic cathedral in France, which is said to have been the inspiration for the Canterbury cathedral. This church has a lot to tell about the church history. Cathedral St Etienne is built upon a Cluny's Romane basilica plan. Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury has been in exile in Sens where king Louis VII of France offered Becket protection in 1164 after his dispute with King Henri II. Many interesting details to see: The oldest surviving stained-glass windows are from the twelfth to the nineteen centuries, wrought iron gates and majestic altars are in classic eighteenth century style. When exiting by the side door, one discovers a beautiful Renaissance courtyard leading to the Palais Synodal. Worth a visit and include the museum. Highly...

Believed to be the earliest gothic cathedral and built around the same time at the Basilica of Saint Denis (a royal abbey just outside Paris and burial place of most of the kings and queens of France). A large cathedral and originally seat of the Primate of Gaul who was senior to the bishop of Paris (hence larger than expected for a smaller town). The cathedral treasury, one of the richest in antiquities in France, contains a supposed fragment of the true cross presented by Charlemagne, and the vestments of Thomas Becket who was exiled there before his death at Canterbury. The treasury is now kept at the magnificent Museum of Sens next door. The stained glass windows are beautiful and the sculptures, especially those on the northern portal, are magnificent. Not to be missed for its historical significance and...

What a jewel of gothic architecture! One of the oldest gothic catedrals in France (I've found a bronze square inside, applied in floor, with a date 20 Jull. 1537. ). A lot of interior and exterior details, big gothic arches effectly holds heavy roof and looks amazing. Big windows ( vitrages ), a lot of nature light inside. Impressive interior with a details in every corner. Wood and stone are preferred materials. It is located in centre of Sans, easly aprochable from every point in town, but parking may be a problem. "Must visit" for everyone who likes gothic style and...