As a Strasbourg native, I’d have to say that if there was only one monument to see in my favourite city, it would definitely be Strasbourg Cathedral! Besides its history, this site is so unique that visitors are well advised not to miss it. Let me share all the secrets of the Grande Dame, as we like to call her around here.
History of Strasbourg Cathedral
Notre-Dame Cathedral in Strasbourg has a history stretching back almost 1,000 years! Built in the Middle Ages, between the 12th and 15th centuries, the craftsmen’s patience and dedication bear witness to the exceptional local expertise of the period. Can you imagine? It took almost 300 years to build this magnificent structure!
Every architect and craftsman involved in its construction left a permanent imprint on the cathedral, which has become a symbol of the city and the entire region. What is so special about it? It has only one tower, unlike many other twin-towered Gothic cathedrals. Owing to financial problems, disagreements and architectural instability, the decision was taken not to build a second one. Its mix of styles is also quite unusual, combining the Romanesque style in its apse and transept with the Gothic style in its nave and façade.
Visiting Strasbourg Cathedral
Notre-Dame Cathedral is open to the public:
- Monday to Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. and from 12:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.
- Sundays and holidays from 2:00 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.
You can also attend services on Sundays or during the week if you wish.
Did you know? Every year, it attracts millions of visitors. Not to mention the wonderful atmosphere at the Christmas market, part of which takes place at the foot of the Grande Dame!
The square in front of Strasbourg Cathedral
As you approach it, the first thing that strikes you is the cathedral’s iconic Gothic architecture. Slender flying buttresses, ornate stonework and tapering spires make it an outstanding example of Gothic art. The west façade is particularly impressive: with statues of prophets, saints and ordinary people, it appears to have been watching over the city for centuries. Don’t forget to take the time to admire the main façade, adorned with the most beautiful rose window in the world (Alsatians don’t mess about).
Vous remarquerez très certainement que sur le parvis, ainsi qu’autour de la cathédrale, il y a toujours un vent assez fort. La légende raconte que subjugué par la beauté de la cathédrale, le Diable en personne aurait pénétré à l’intérieur sans jamais en sortir, oubliant le vent, sa fidèle monture, à l’extérieur. A vous de croire en la légende ou non !
Inside Strasbourg Cathedral
As you step inside, you’ll be struck by the dizzying height of the nave, rising to 142 metres. The vaulted ceilings reach spectacular heights, creating an atmosphere of grandeur and a deep sense of tranquillity. The stained-glass windows, some dating back to the 13th century, cast colourful hues throughout the interior.
Strasbourg Cathedral’s astronomical clock
The astronomical clock installed at Strasbourg cathedral represents both a mechanical and an artistic achievement. It ranks as one of the most remarkable in the world. Every day at 12:30 p.m., the clock’s automata come to life for spellbinding spectacle. A procession of the twelve apostles passes in front of Christ, while other figures representing characters from Strasbourg’s history come to life. It was manufactured by Jean-Baptiste Schwilgué, a renowned Strasbourg clockmaker. The clock is famous for its multiple dials and displays, featuring information on the time, the phases of the moon, the perpetual calendar, the movements of the planets and the signs of the zodiac (a major innovation at the time!). It is also adorned with intricate sculptures and artistic decorations.
The platform of Strasbourg Cathedral
The foot of the tower features an observation platform offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Strasbourg and its surroundings. The platform is reached by climbing a spiral staircase with over 300 steps. But believe me, the view is well worth the effort! On clear days, you can even see the Vosges mountains.
The platform can be accessed (check the official Strasbourg Cathedral website):
- from 1 April to 30 September from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 1:20 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Last ascent at 7.15 p.m.
- from 1 October to 31 March from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 1:20 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Last ascent at 6:15 p.m.
Museum of the Oeuvre Notre-Dame
Not far from Strasbourg Cathedral, on Place du Château, this museum traces the history of the cathedral’s construction from its origins to its completion. The exhibition features models, drawings, plans, tools and objects linked to the cathedral, providing a fascinating insight into its history. Don’t hesitate to visit it to learn more about this monument.
The district around Strasbourg Cathedral
Strasbourg Cathedral is located on the Grande Île, the city’s historic centre. Continue your visit a few hundred metres further and you’ll have the chance to admire the magnificent Petite France district. Visits to these two quarters generally go hand in hand. Furthermore, both districts boast a host of traditional Alsatian restaurants where you can sample sauerkraut, Baeckeoffe and other local delicacies.
Conclusion
As you’ll have gathered, Strasbourg’s Notre-Dame Cathedral is far more than just a religious landmark. It is a witness to the city’s history, a source of inspiration and a place not to be missed when visiting Strasbourg. Its outstanding architecture, enthralling astronomical clock, monumental scale and appealing location make it a must-see destination for any traveller in search of new experiences. So, when visiting Strasbourg, don’t forget to take the time to admire the cathedral, both inside and out. You’ll be discovering a key part of the history and culture of my beautiful Alsatian town.
Make sure you don’t miss any of the latest news or opening times by visiting the official website: https://www.cathedrale-strasbourg.fr/.
And if you’re visiting Strasbourg at Christmas, don’t miss our top tips on the city’s Christmas markets.
