Dax Cathedral
Aire and Dax·Roman Catholic·France
Dax Cathedral, officially known as Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Dax, is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in Dax, France. It serves as the principal church of the Diocese of Aire and Dax, with its bishop's seat officially transferred to Dax in 1833, making it a significant religious and historical landmark in the region.
Key Facts
- ›The original Gothic cathedral, built in the late 13th century, collapsed in 1646.
- ›The present cathedral was constructed from 1694 onwards in a classical style.
- ›The magnificent Portal of the Apostles, a remnant of the 13th-century structure, is a notable feature.
- ›The cathedral houses 16th-century choir stalls saved from the former building.
- ›The organ loft, dating from the late 17th century, is considered one of the most beautiful in France.
- ›Dax Cathedral is recognized as a national monument of France.
- Portal of the Apostles
- 16th-Century Choir Stalls
- Murals In the Dome
- Polychromatic Marble High Altar
- Late 17th-Century Organ Loft
- Paintings By Gerrit Van Honthorst and Hans Von Aachen
About Dax Cathedral
Dax Cathedral, officially known as Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Dax, is a significant Roman Catholic church located in the town of Dax, within the Landes département of France. It holds national monument status and is a focal point for the Diocese of Aire and Dax.
History and Construction
The origins of Dax Cathedral trace back to the late 13th century when a prosperous town supported the construction of a new Gothic cathedral to replace an older Romanesque sanctuary. This Gothic edifice, however, suffered a catastrophic collapse in 1646. Remarkably, the magnificent Portal of the Apostles, a 12-meter-high and 8-meter-wide doorway adorned with intricate sculptures, survived this collapse and remains a testament to the artistry of the period. The present cathedral was subsequently built from 1694 onwards, adopting a more restrained classical architectural style.
Architectural Style and Features
The cathedral's architecture is characterized by a plain style of classical inspiration. The main façade and south elevation present a solid, almost austere appearance. In contrast, the north elevation, overlooking a small square in the historic center, offers a more engaging presence. Internally, the dome over the crossing is a striking feature, adorned with decorative murals. The quire contains the original 16th-century stalls of the canons, salvaged from the former cathedral. The mid-18th-century high altar and the altar of the Virgin Mary are crafted from polychromatic marble by the Mazzetti brothers. The late 17th-century organ loft, attributed to local ebonist Caular, has undergone restoration and is recognized as one of the most beautiful in France.
Artistic Treasures
Beyond its architectural elements, Dax Cathedral houses several notable paintings. These include Gerrit van Honthorst's 17th-century work, "Jesus and His Disciples," and Hans von Aachen's late 16th-century "Adoration of the Shepherds." These artworks contribute to the cathedral's rich artistic heritage.
Diocesan Significance
The history of the Diocese of Dax is intertwined with broader ecclesiastical reforms. While the diocese was not restored after the French Revolution, it was eventually reconstituted in 1817 as the Diocese of Aire and Dax, with its bishop's seat initially at Aire Cathedral. In 1833, the official seat was transferred to Dax Cathedral, solidifying its role as the principal church for the diocese, although Aire Cathedral continues to function as a co-cathedral.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of Dax Cathedral?
The current Dax Cathedral replaced a 13th-century Gothic structure that collapsed in 1646. Construction of the present cathedral began in 1694, featuring a classical architectural style. It became the official bishop's seat for the Diocese of Aire and Dax in 1833.
What are the notable architectural features of Dax Cathedral?
Key features include the 13th-century Portal of the Apostles in the north transept, the dome over the crossing decorated with murals, and the 16th-century choir stalls. The late 17th-century organ loft is also a celebrated element.
What artworks can be found in Dax Cathedral?
The cathedral contains several significant paintings, including 'Jesus and His Disciples' by Gerrit van Honthorst and the 'Adoration of the Shepherds' by Hans von Aachen.
What is the significance of the Diocese of Aire and Dax?
The diocese was re-established in 1817, initially with its seat at Aire Cathedral. In 1833, the bishop's seat was officially transferred to Dax Cathedral, though Aire Cathedral remains a co-cathedral.
Is Dax Cathedral a protected monument?
Yes, Dax Cathedral is designated as a national monument of France. The Portal of the Apostles was specifically classified as a national monument in its own right in 1884.
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