Cathedrale St-Lazare

About

The Cathedral of Saint Lazare (Cathédrale Saint‑Lazare) in the historic town of Autun, Burgundy, is a monument of exceptional Romanesque artistry. Commissioned by Bishop Étienne de Bâgé to accommodate the growing wave of pilgrims, it was consecrated in 1132 and completed in 1146. The façade and cloister showcase Gislebertus’s magnificent sculptural program, most notably the intricate tympanum of the Last Judgment and a series of biblical capitals that celebrate the themes of sin and redemption. Inside, a nave flanked by side aisles is illuminated by stone arches and crowned with a richly decorated clerestory, creating a reverent ambiance that has inspired artists and scholars for centuries. Today, the cathedral is a free‑entry national monument, offering visitors a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience of medieval religious architecture, storytelling sculpture, and the spiritual life that animated Burgundy’s pilgrimage routes. The interior is organized around a Latin cross plan, with a 7‑bay nave surmounted by a 15th‑century Gothic spire. Gislebertus’s capitals décorate the columns with dramatic scenes of the Flight into Egypt, the Adoration of the Magi, and the Hanging of Judas, each rendered in a naturalistic style that captivates the eye. The tympanum of the Last Judgment, reserved for the west portal, is one of the finest surviving examples of Romanesque art and remains a key attraction for art historians and curious travelers alike. Visitors should allow at least two hours to appreciate the cathedral’s artistic treasures, explore the cloister, and enjoy the tranquil setting. During peak seasons, the central nave can become crowded, but the quiet afternoons in late spring or early autumn offer a more contemplative experience.

Highlights

• Gislebertus Capitals
• Last Judgment Tympanum
• Romanesque Architecture

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At a glance

• Typical visit: about 2 hours