Autun Cathedral

The Cathedral of Saint Lazarus of Autun, commonly known as Autun Cathedral, stands as a remarkable example of Romanesque art and architecture in Burgundy, France. Famous for its Cluniac inspiration and its exceptionally expressive Romanesque sculptures by Gislebertus, it is a significant national monument and the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Autun.

History and Construction

The origins of Autun's cathedral trace back to a 5th-century structure dedicated to Saint Nazarius. This early cathedral was enlarged and refurbished over centuries, notably acquiring relics believed to be of Lazarus of Bethany around 970. The growing veneration of these relics and the increasing flow of pilgrims, especially those en route to Santiago de Compostela, necessitated a larger church. Around 1120, Bishop Etienne de Bâgé initiated the construction of the new cathedral of Saint Lazarus on a site north of the older Saint Nazaire.

Construction progressed rapidly, and the new cathedral was consecrated in 1132. It was largely completed by 1146, with the translation of the relics of Lazarus occurring in the same year. The shrine for the relics, the Tomb of Lazarus, was constructed in the choir between 1170 and 1180. While the interior retains a strong Romanesque character, the exterior has been modified over time. A Gothic tower and spire were added in the 15th century, and the belfry was rebuilt between 1462 and 1469 following a lightning strike. The west towers were reconstructed in the 19th century, designed to echo the Romanesque style.

Architecture and Sculpture

Autun Cathedral is a masterpiece of Romanesque art, particularly celebrated for its sculptural program. The nave and choir are adorned with hundreds of historiated capitals carved by Gislebertus, depicting biblical narratives, lives of saints, and moral allegories. These capitals are renowned for their vivid detail, emotional intensity, and innovative use of form.

The cathedral's exterior follows a Latin cross plan, with an aisled nave, a plain transept, and a semicircular choir. The interior features a nave with three levels of elevation: the grand arcade, triforium, and clerestory, all supported by massive columns with carved capitals. The use of pointed arches in the nave vaulting was an innovation for the period.

The Last Judgment Tympanum

Perhaps the most iconic work within Autun Cathedral is the Last Judgment tympanum, created around 1130 and also signed by Gislebertus. This monumental sculpture, once covered with plaster by canons who found it artistically unappealing, was rediscovered in 1837. It is considered one of the most important surviving examples of Romanesque sculpture. The tympanum depicts Christ in judgment, flanked by angels and apostles, with scenes of the resurrection, the weighing of souls, and the torments of hell. The surrounding archivolts feature medallions representing the zodiac signs, seasons, and labors of the months, offering a rich tapestry of medieval symbolism.

Significance

Autun Cathedral was a crucial pilgrimage destination, drawing visitors to venerate the relics of Saint Lazarus. The sculptural program, especially the Last Judgment tympanum, served as a powerful visual tool for teaching Christian doctrine to a largely illiterate populace. Its artistic merit has secured its place as a highlight of Romanesque art, attracting scholars and visitors interested in medieval history, art, and religious practices.