Photo : Celeda / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Cathédrale Saint-Pierre
The Cathedral of Saint-Pierre dominates the upper town of Saint-Flour, perched on its lava flow, in the Cantal. The site is said to be linked to an oratory dedicated to Saint Florus, founder of the town; a first building consecrated in 1095 has left no visible trace.
The present cathedral dates from the late Middle Ages, built mainly between the end of the 14th and the middle of the 15th century. It is a major example of Gothic art in the Cantal, with mullioned windows, two massive towers and three naves. Damaged during the Revolution, it regained its present Gothic appearance in the 19th century.
Inside are the famous Black Christ, a medieval wooden statue, stained glass, wall paintings and contemporary liturgical furnishings by the goldsmith Goudji. The Tomb Chapel holds a gilded bronze reliquary containing relics of Saint Flour. From the Place d'Armes in front of the cathedral, the view opens onto the Ander gorges.
