Saint Michel Cathedral

The Basilique Saint-Michel in Bordeaux is a stunning Gothic church built between the 14th and 16th centuries, located in the heart of the Saint-Michel district near Place Meynard. Known for its freestanding bell tower, which rises 114 meters high, it offers panoramic views of Bordeaux. The basilica is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features intricate stained-glass windows and rich architectural details. Its crypt occasionally hosts exhibitions, adding a unique cultural dimension to the visit.

This church is considered to be the city’s tallest building and the second-tallest church in France. The bell tower and the crypt are open every day for tourists and other people. From the late 18th century until 1990, the bell tower crypt was used as a demonstration space to showcase an assemblage of gruesome mummies that were found in a nearby cemetery. The ceilings are entirely painted in the style of baroque due to which the interiors look colourful and appealing though the individual paintings may appear to be insignificant. The pulpit of the church portrays Saint Michael massacring a dragon while Couturat designed the central stained glass. The Gothic style architecture is exquisite and enhances the appearance of the church. The basilica was constructed between the end of the 14th century and the 16th century. It is at the core of the ancient quarter of St.Michael.