Also known as Grenoble Cathedral, Eglise Notre Dame has long been an important place of worship for the people of Grenoble. Along with neighboring St. Hugues Church, Grenoble Cathedral is part of a double church system, in which two churches were built side by side. While the double church system was a common design in the early Christian era, few remain as well preserved as this complex in Grenoble. Visit the two buildings which belong to a larger cathedral complex, also including the remains of the city’s first baptistery, from the 4th century.
Construction of the buildings that make up the cathedral today started in the early 13th century. They were extensively reconstructed during the 19th century and then renovated again in the 1990s. Now it is the seat of the Bishop of Grenoble. Note how the architectural elements of today’s Grenoble Cathedral reflect the building’s evolution over the centuries.
Defined by its brick bell tower, the cathedral’s exterior is somewhat plain, yet its interior is quite beautiful. Take the time to see a few artifacts inside the cathedral. Pick up one of the free guides, available in both English and French, to read an overview of the building’s history and its more notable pieces of Renaissance art.
Admire the cathedral’s stained-glass windows, which were made in the 19th century. The center window is a depiction of Our Lady of the Assumption, the patron saint of the cathedral. The cathedral is also known for its ciborium, an elaborately carved wall that was crafted in the 15th century.
Look for the beautiful choir, which retains its original bays with detailed moldings. Other interesting artifacts in the cathedral’s interior include the series of gilded wood carving panels and the ornate 18th-century pulpit.
Eglise Notre Dame is located in Place Notre Dame in Grenoble’s historic downtown area. Reach it easily by either bus or tramway. The cathedral is open daily and admission is free. It is still an active house of worship, so you can also stop by for evening services on weekdays.