Perpignan Cathedral

About

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint John the Baptist in Perpignan, France, stands as a proud testament to the Catalan Gothic tradition that flourished during the reign of the Kingdom of Majorca. Dedicated to the patron saint of the city, the cathedral is a registered national monument and a focal point of religious life in the region. Construction began in 1324 under King Sancho of Majorca and was completed in the 15th century, replacing the older cathedral of Elna. Its architectural character is defined by an expansive nave—80 metres long, 18 metres wide, and 26 metres high—supported by seven cross‑vaults and a short transept. The façade, originally unfinished, was later restored in the 19th and 20th centuries, preserving a striking blend of medieval stonework and later embellishments. Visitors will also discover the adjacent Campo Santo, the largest medieval cemetery in France, whose cloister walls and tombstones offer a quiet window into Renaissance funerary customs. The 18th‑century tower shelters the first carillon in Perpignan, a rare collection of tuned bells that continues to resonate throughout the city.

Highlights

• Catalan Gothic Design
• 18th‑Century Carillon
• Campo Santo Cemetery

Must-See Areas

Good to Know

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 2 hours