Cloister of the Cathédrale Saint Sauveur, Aix en Provence

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Explo writer

Aug

32635 pts.

Off the path Explo

48 %

Off the path Explo rate

Score

2.4 / 5

Comments

A really nice cloister. But a bit touristic also ;)
Article Quality

82 %
Article Quality rate
- Description
  
  Score
  
  4 / 5
  
  Comments
  
  Description and tips are ok!
- Plans & useful information
  
  Score
  
  2.5 / 5
  
  Comments
  
  Useful information could be better: any phone number to contact for the visit?
- Pictures
  
  Score
  
  4 / 5
  
  Comments
  
  4 pictures.
- Precise localization on map
  
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  5 / 5
  
  Comments
  
  Yes!
- 1 specific article for 1 specific spot
  
  Score
  
  5 / 5
  
  Comments
  
  Yes!
Explo Popularity

%

One of the most beautiful cloisters in France. Damaged a few years ago, it has since been beautifully renovated.

My experience, Explo description:

The cloister was built in the 12th century. It was then reduced in the early 18th century (to expand the west corridor, accessing to the cathedral). Nowadays, you can see this transformation by noting that the cloister is not symmetrical.

The cloister is richly decorated. Each corner pillar is decorated with a symbol of an evangelist:
South - West Corner: Matthew (angel)
North - West Corner: Mark (lion)
North - East Corner: John (eagle)
South - east Corner: Luke (bull)

Each column is decorated. Some are twisted or not, some are made with reuse material. The column capitals are sculpted with some stories of the Bible:
Those in the west gallery illustrate the Old Testament.
Those in the north gallery, illustrate episodes from the life of Christ.
Those in the East Gallery, illustrate the triumph of Christianity over paganism.
Finally, the South gallery is decorated with foliage.

Do not miss the statue of Saint Peter (holding the keys of Paradise), located under the capital of St. John.

My personal recommendations:

Access to the monastery is closed to the public. The only way to visit it is to be accompanied by a volunteer association guide (association Cathédrale vivante). They organize visits every 1/2h (in summer mainly) between 10 am and 12 am and between 14:30 pm and 17:30 pm, except during church services.

Their permanence is located right on entering the cathedral.

How getting there:

It is hard to miss the cathedral once in Aix en Provence!

Useful information:

Visit duration:

30 minutes.

Entry fees:

The tour is free, but a coin for the guide is always welcome!

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