Carpentras Cathedral

Carpentras Cathedral, or Cathédrale Saint-Siffrein de Carpentras as it is known in French, stands proudly in the heart of Carpentras, a charming town in the Vaucluse department of France. This magnificent Gothic structure, with its rich history and architectural splendor, is a must-visit for anyone traveling through Provence. The cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the town's historical and cultural heritage.

The History of Carpentras Cathedral

The origins of Carpentras Cathedral date back to the Romanesque period. The first cathedral, which was a single nave structure, was believed to have been constructed by Bishop Siffrein, a monk from Lérins, in the 6th century. This early cathedral was dedicated to Saint Anthony the Hermit. By the 10th century, the episcopal complex was dedicated to the Virgin Mary, Saint Peter, and Saint Siffrein.

The Romanesque cathedral, attributed to Bishop Geoffroy de Garosse, was constructed around 1180. However, by the 14th century, the structure had become dilapidated, and its vault collapsed in 1399. This led to the construction of the current Gothic cathedral, initiated by Pope Benedict XIII during the Western Schism. The first stone was laid on February 22, 1405, under the supervision of Thomas Colin, a master builder from Dinan in Brittany. The Gothic cathedral was consecrated in 1531.

Exploring Carpentras Cathedral

As you approach Carpentras Cathedral, the first thing that catches your eye is the stunning Gothic architecture. The main portal, dating back to 1615, opens onto the Place du Palais de Justice, the former episcopal palace. The walnut doors, adorned with the coat of arms of Horace Capponi, are flanked by marble columns believed to have originated from the baptistery of Venasque, dating from the 4th century.

The cathedral's bell tower, constructed between 1899 and 1902, stands at an impressive height of 58 meters. This neo-Gothic structure replaced the original Romanesque bell tower, which was demolished in 1875. The design of the new bell tower was inspired by the bell tower of the Church of Saint-Martial in Avignon.

The Interior of Carpentras Cathedral

The interior of the cathedral is equally breathtaking. The apse, measuring 12 meters in height, is a semi-circular structure with 12 radiating chapels. The chancel, 16 meters long and 11 meters wide, is separated from the nave by an ornate wrought iron grille, a gift from Joseph-Dominique d'Inguimbert. The walls of the chancel are adorned with tribunes, one of which houses the grand organ, a historical monument dating back to 1455.

The nave, 15.3 meters wide and 42 meters long, features six vaulted bays. The decorated keystones of the vaults were all redone in the 19th century. The keystone closest to the main portal bears the coat of arms of Joseph-Dominique d'Inguimbert, bishop of Carpentras from 1738 to 1757.

The Chapels of Carpentras Cathedral

Carpentras Cathedral is home to several chapels, each with its unique history and charm. On the south side, there are five chapels:

• Chapel of the Baptismal Fonts: Initially located in the narthex, the baptismal fonts now have their own dedicated chapel. The marble font is topped with a dome, added in 1835, and enclosed by a 17th-century stone balustrade.
• Chapel of Saint Anne: This chapel, once dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, is adorned with paintings, including one depicting Saint Helena carrying the Cross, and an 18th-century altar.
• Chapel of Saint Joseph: Originally dedicated to Saint Zachary and Saint James, then to Corpus Domini, this chapel now honors Saint Joseph. It features a 17th-century polychrome marble altar and stained glass depicting the death of Saint Joseph.
• Chapel of the Souls in Purgatory: This chapel, with a Genoese yellow marble altar, is decorated with 17th-century gilded wooden statues of Saint Sebastian and Saint Roch. A memorial plaque honors those who died for France during World War I.
• Chapel of the Annunciation: Also known as the Sacred Heart Chapel, it was once dedicated to Saint Mark. It contains a stained glass window, a gift from Bishop Michel Anglici in the 15th century, depicting Saint Siffrein between Saint Michael and Saint Catherine, and a 1974 Pascal Quoirin organ.

On the north side, there are six additional chapels:

• Chapel of the Holy Nail: Also dedicated to Saint Claude and the Guardian Angel, this chapel features a Louis XV-style gray marble altar by the Mazzetti brothers of Avignon. It served as the burial place for the bishops of Carpentras before their tombs were moved to the chancel.
• Chapel of Saint Siffrein: Once dedicated to Saint Louis and Saint Crispin, this chapel now honors the cathedral's patron saint, Saint Siffrein. The 17th-century gilded wooden altar and retable were restored in the 19th century.
• Chapel of the Cross or Corpus Domini: Previously dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows, this chapel was the original entrance to the cloister, now partially destroyed and blocked off. The tomb of the Sadolet bishops is located here.

Visiting Carpentras Cathedral

A visit to Carpentras Cathedral is a journey through centuries of history and art. The cathedral's Gothic architecture, combined with its rich collection of religious art and historical artifacts, makes it a fascinating destination for history buffs and art lovers alike. Whether you are exploring the intricate details of the chapels, admiring the grand organ, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, Carpentras Cathedral offers a unique and enriching experience.

So, if you find yourself in Provence, make sure to set aside some time to visit Carpentras Cathedral. It is not just a place of worship but a symbol of the town's enduring heritage and a testament to the skill and devotion of the generations that built and preserved it. A visit here is sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the history and culture of this beautiful region.