Hotels near Strasbourg Cathedral
Strasbourg · 1 hotel nearby
Photo by Anastasy Gang on Unsplash
About Strasbourg Cathedral
Standing at the heart of Strasbourg's medieval old town, the Cathedral of Our Lady — known locally as the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg — is one of the most celebrated Gothic structures in Europe. Built primarily from warm pink Vosges sandstone, it dominates the city skyline and has drawn visitors for centuries.
Architecture and Artistic Heritage
Construction began in 1015 and continued across several centuries, resulting in a blend of Romanesque foundations and soaring Gothic detail. The single completed spire reaches 142 metres, making it the tallest building in the world from 1647 to 1874. The west facade is richly decorated with hundreds of carved figures, while the interior houses a remarkable 14th-century astronomical clock that performs a mechanical procession of figures daily at 12:30 pm. The rose windows and stained glass panels date back to the 13th and 14th centuries.
Visiting the Cathedral and Surroundings
The cathedral sits within Strasbourg's Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can climb the platform at 66 metres for panoramic views over the city's rooftops and the Rhine plain. Directly adjacent is the Palais Rohan, a former episcopal palace now housing three museums. A short walk leads to Place Kléber, the city's main public square, and the picturesque canal district of La Petite France.
Practical Tips
- Entry to the cathedral nave is free; a fee applies for the tower platform.
- The astronomical clock show draws crowds — arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
- Opening hours vary seasonally; check the official website before visiting.
- Modest dress is recommended as it remains an active place of worship.
FAQ
Q: How tall is Strasbourg Cathedral? A: The spire reaches 142 metres, and the cathedral held the record as the world's tallest structure for over two centuries.
Q: Is there an entrance fee? A: The nave is free to enter. Climbing the tower platform requires a paid ticket.
Q: What is the astronomical clock? A: It is a large mechanical clock from the 16th century, featuring moving figures that perform a daily procession at 12:30 pm.
Q: How do I get to the cathedral from La Petite France? A: La Petite France is roughly a 10-minute walk east through the old town streets.
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Strasbourg Cathedral?
The spire reaches 142 metres, and the cathedral held the record as the world's tallest structure for over two centuries.
Is there an entrance fee?
The nave is free to enter. Climbing the tower platform requires a paid ticket.
What is the astronomical clock?
It is a large mechanical clock from the 16th century, featuring moving figures that perform a daily procession at 12:30 pm.
How do I get to the cathedral from La Petite France?
La Petite France is roughly a 10-minute walk east through the old town streets.
