CATHEDRALE NOTRE-DAME & SAINT-PRIVAT DE MENDE

The Gothic cathedral was born from the will of Pope Urban V, a native of Gévaudan. He commissioned the work in 1368, two years before his death. The cathedral was consecrated in 1467, almost a century later. The bell towers, financed by Bishop François de la Rovère, of Italian origin, date from the early 16th century. The great 84-meter bell tower housed the "Non Pareille," considered at the time to be the largest bell in Christendom. During the Wars of Religion, Captain Merle, leader of the Huguenots, forced the city gates on Christmas night 1579. He began undermining the pillars of the building (removing the earth beneath the foundations), causing it to partially collapse. The choir, a large part of the side aisles, mainly on the north side, and the two bell towers withstood the attack. The cathedral was restored in the 17th century according to the same plans. At the end of the 19th century, the vaults, decorations, and side porches were restored in the Neo-Gothic style. The western porch was added and completed in 1906. Inside, you can see the 12th-century Black Madonna, the 15th-century portrait of Urban V, the 17th-century choir stalls and organ, and the 18th-century Aubusson tapestries. Guided tours for individuals are available from June to September and during school holidays, and by reservation the rest of the year. Click for more information about Mende Cathedral and resources for self-guided visits (brochures, mobile apps, etc.). A free informational brochure is available at the Mende Tourist Office. View the brochure to explore the cathedral and the historic center of Mende independently . We hope you enjoy discovering the old town of Mende. PLEASE NOTE: OPENING HOURS OF MENDE CATHEDRAL MAY VARY, PLEASE BE SURE TO CHECK THE TIMES BEFORE VISITING THE BUILDING.

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