Saint-Pierre Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre) in Beauvais, France, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and one of the top tourist attractions in Picardy. Furthermore, the construction project was among the most ambitious of its time. And this Christian place of worship would have been the world's tallest human-made structure for centuries if completed successfully. Nonetheless, Beauvais Cathedral is a sight to behold, and the information you can find here will help you organize your tour of the grand building.
Continue reading to learn the following useful info:
- How to get to the cathedral
- Opening hours and fees
- Average time for a visit and
- Top attractions
Saint Pierre Cathedral, Beauvais: General Information
You will find Saint-Pierre Cathedral in the street of the same name in downtown Beauvais. It is a short drive away from Beauvais Airport (up to 10 minutes), used by many low-cost airlines. From Paris, you can get there for about an hour by car.
Even if you can't make it there during opening hours, the religious structure's exterior alone is worth a trip.
| Saint-Pierre Cathedral Hours of Operation | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cathedral | Astronomical Clocks | |||
| 1 November–31 March | 10:00–12:15 and 14:00–17:15 | 10:30, 11:30, 14:30, 15:30, 16:30 | ||
| 1 April–31 October | 10:00–18:15 | 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 13:30, 14:30, 15:30, 16:30 | ||
| Beauvais Cathedral Fees | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cathedral | Astronomical Clocks | Notes | ||||
| Full Price | Free | €5 | / | |||
| Reduced Price | €3 | Visitors with disabilities, under 25, and job seekers | ||||
| Groups | €4 | / | ||||
Extra Beauvais Cathedral Insights (Duration and Sights)
Since the attraction is off the paths travelers use, it is typically quiet. So, you won't need to stand in line to enter.
The decision on how long you should spend visiting this extraordinary landmark is individual and up to you. But, allow at least 15 minutes for the exterior and as much for the interior. Everything above that is a huge bonus.
Things Not to Miss During Your Visit
As for the Saint-Pierre Cathedral highlights, pay special attention to:
- Height of the rib vault
- Chapel of Saint Theresa of Lisieux's 14th-century clock next to the northern portal
- The 19th-century astronomical clock in the Holy Sepulchre chapel (fees apply)
- Also, pay attention to what isn't there - a nave.
