Arras Cathedral

Arras Cathedral, known in French as Cathédrale Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Vaast d'Arras, is a stunning example of classical architecture nestled in the heart of Arras, in the Pas-de-Calais region of northern France. This magnificent edifice is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.

The History of Arras Cathedral

The origins of Arras Cathedral can be traced back to 1778 when it was initially constructed as the church of the Saint-Vaast Abbey. The abbey itself dates back to the 7th century and was one of the most significant monastic establishments in medieval France. During the Middle Ages, Arras was a thriving city in the prosperous province of Artois, home to numerous Gothic churches. Among these, the abbey church of Saint-Vaast and the original Notre-Dame-en-Cité Cathedral were the most prominent.

The current cathedral was designed by the renowned architect Pierre Contant d'Ivry, who also designed the Church of La Madeleine in Paris. The construction of the church began in earnest around 1766, following the classical architectural style that was popular at the time. However, the project was interrupted by the French Revolution in 1792, leaving the church unfinished. During the Revolution, the abbey was declared national property and repurposed for military use, which fortunately helped preserve the structure.

In 1804, Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte designated the church of the former Saint-Vaast Abbey as the new cathedral for the Diocese of Arras, replacing the damaged Notre-Dame-en-Cité Cathedral. The completion of the cathedral was overseen by the imperial architect François Verly, who adhered to Contant d'Ivry's original plans. The construction resumed in 1815 and continued sporadically until 1833, with significant contributions from King Charles X and the first post-Revolution bishop, Hugues de La Tour d'Auvergne-Lauraguais.

Exploring Arras Cathedral

Arras Cathedral is a masterpiece of classical architecture, characterized by its harmonious proportions and elegant design. The façade is particularly striking, featuring the superposition of two Corinthian orders and a triangular pediment. Although the façade appears simple and austere, it was originally intended to include a grand peristyle, which was never realized.

As you step inside, you are greeted by a vast nave flanked by colossal Corinthian columns that support a grand entablature running around the entire interior. The cathedral's layout follows a traditional Latin cross plan, with a length of 116 meters, a transept width of 56 meters, and a height under the vault of 32 meters. The central nave, transept, and chancel are vaulted with pseudo-domes on double arches, creating an impressive height and sense of space.

The interior is bathed in natural light, thanks to the large windows in the clerestory and the side aisles. This luminosity is further enhanced by the white glass windows, which create a serene and uplifting atmosphere. The chancel is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows, some of which bear the coats of arms of the cathedral's early patrons.

The Chapel of the Virgin and the Unfinished Tower

One of the most remarkable features of Arras Cathedral is the Chapel of the Virgin, located at the rear of the chancel. This chapel, covered by a small dome, was intended to be the base of a towering spire, which was never completed due to budget constraints and concerns about the stability of the ground. As a result, the cathedral lacks the towering presence of some of its Gothic predecessors but retains a unique and elegant charm.

Restoration and Resilience

Arras Cathedral has faced its share of challenges over the centuries. During World War I, the cathedral suffered significant damage, particularly in 1915. The subsequent restoration work, led by the chief architect of historical monuments, Pierre Paquet, began in 1920 and lasted for fourteen years. The reconstruction utilized reinforced concrete for the vaults and roof structure, ensuring the cathedral's resilience while preserving its original appearance.

In 1934, the restored cathedral was returned to its sacred function, with a grand inauguration attended by Marshal Philippe Pétain and Bishop Henri-Édouard Dutoit. However, the cathedral faced further damage during World War II, when a shell struck the building in 1944. Fortunately, these damages were quickly repaired, and the cathedral continued to stand as a symbol of faith and resilience.

The Grand Organ

One of the highlights of Arras Cathedral is its grand organ, originally crafted by the Roethinger workshop in Strasbourg in 1937. The installation of the organ was interrupted by World War II, and the remaining components were stored in the cathedral's basement, where they suffered damage. The organ was finally completed in 1962, but it has since fallen into disrepair. Efforts to restore this magnificent instrument are ongoing, and it remains a symbol of the cathedral's rich musical heritage.

In conclusion, Arras Cathedral is not just a place of worship; it is a living monument to the history, culture, and resilience of the people of Arras. Its classical architecture, rich history, and serene interior make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a place of tranquility, Arras Cathedral offers a unique and unforgettable experience.