Arras Cathedral
Arras Cathedral, officially named Cathédrale Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Vaast d'Arras, serves as the principal church and seat of the Bishops of Arras in France. The current structure is built upon the site of the former Abbey Church of Saint-Vaast, which was consecrated in 1834 after a significant rebuilding in neoclassical style following the French Revolution.
Key Facts
- ›The original Gothic cathedral, Notre-Dame-en-Cité, was built between 1030 and 1396 and was destroyed during the French Revolution.
- ›The current Arras Cathedral is the former Abbey Church of Saint-Vaast, rebuilt starting in 1750 in neoclassical style.
- ›Construction of the current structure was resumed after the Revolution with a focus on solidity and decency, finishing in 1834.
- ›The cathedral was heavily damaged by shelling in April 1917 during World War I and subsequently rebuilt.
- ›Notable artworks include a marble statue of the Virgin with Child by Jean-Pierre Cortot and work by sculptor Marcel Gaumont.
- Marble Statue of the Virgin With Child By Jean-Pierre Cortot
- Pulpit Depicting Christ Amongst His Disciples and the Four Evangelists By Marcel Gaumont
- Baptismal Font By Marcel Gaumont
- Stations of the Cross By Alexandre Descatoire
Pierre Contant D'Ivry
About Arras Cathedral
Arras Cathedral, officially known as Cathédrale Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Vaast d'Arras, stands as the principal Catholic church and the episcopal seat of the Bishops of Arras in the city of Arras, France. The history of Arras Cathedral is marked by destruction and rebuilding, with the current edifice occupying the site of the former Abbey Church of Saint-Vaast.
History and Construction
The original cathedral of Arras was Notre-Dame-en-Cité, which became the seat of the diocese upon its renewal in 1094. This Gothic structure, built between 1030 and 1396, was once considered one of northern France's most beautiful Gothic edifices. However, during the French Revolution, it was sold and subsequently demolished. The current cathedral is the former Abbey Church of Saint-Vaast, which underwent a significant rebuilding process starting in 1750 in the neoclassical style. This reconstruction was interrupted by the Revolution but resumed thereafter, with a decree prioritizing solidity and decency over elaborate decoration. The church was completed in 1834, with its interior featuring plaster-coated brickwork and undressed stone columns.
Architectural Significance and Notable Features
While the original cathedral was a prime example of Gothic architecture, the current structure embodies the neoclassical style. The building has experienced further damage and restoration, notably being heavily shelled in April 1917 during World War I and subsequently rebuilt to its former appearance. Among its notable features are a marble statue of the Virgin with Child by Jean-Pierre Cortot, a donation from Louis XVIII. Sculptor Marcel Gaumont contributed significantly to the cathedral's interior, creating works such as the pulpit and the baptismal font, which depict biblical scenes. Alexandre Descatoire is credited with the Stations of the Cross.
Context and Location
Arras Cathedral is situated adjacent to the Musée des beaux-arts d'Arras, which itself is housed in the former Benedictine Abbey of Saint-Vaast. The cathedral continues to function as an active place of worship and is a significant religious landmark in the city of Arras.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the original cathedral of Arras?
The original cathedral of Arras was the church of Notre-Dame-en-Cité, which became the seat of the Bishops of Arras when the diocese was renewed in 1094. This Gothic structure was built between 1030 and 1396 but was demolished after being sold to speculators during the French Revolution.
When was the current Arras Cathedral built?
The current Arras Cathedral is the former Abbey Church of Saint-Vaast. Its rebuilding began in 1750 in neoclassical style, with work resuming after the Revolution to focus on structural integrity. It was completed in 1834.
What significant damage has Arras Cathedral sustained?
Arras Cathedral was heavily damaged by shelling in April 1917 during World War I. It was subsequently rebuilt in its previous form.
Are there any notable artworks in Arras Cathedral?
Yes, the cathedral features a marble statue of the Virgin with Child by Jean-Pierre Cortot, donated by Louis XVIII. Sculptor Marcel Gaumont also contributed significant works, including the pulpit and the baptismal font, while Alexandre Descatoire created the Stations of the Cross.
What is the architectural style of Arras Cathedral?
The current Arras Cathedral, the former Abbey Church of Saint-Vaast, was rebuilt in a neoclassical style. The original cathedral, Notre-Dame-en-Cité, was a Gothic structure.
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