Like all French (and European) cities, there are many catholic churches in Tours. Here are but a few of them:
Saint-Julien Church
Front of the Saint-Julien Church
Below the Saint-Julien Church
The Saint-Julien ChurchThe Saint-Julien church is the last remaining part of the old Benedictine abbey. The church was built in the year 1240. The abbey was built in the 6th century, but over the centuries, it was destroyed. In 1224 the tower was destroyed during a rare hurricane.
The 2nd World War further destroyed the abbey. Now, all that remains is the church. The church is usually closed, but is open every Friday and Saturday from 18:00 until 22:00 (from Easter until all Saints Day). Every Thursday, apart from school holidays, it’s open from 18:30 until 20:00.
Saint-Gatien Cathedral
Saint-Gatien Cathedral
Saint-Gatien Cathedral
Saint-Gatien Cathedral
Entry to the Saint-Gatien Cathedral
Saint-Gatien CathedralThe Tours Cathedral is dedicated to Saint Gatianus, and building started in 1170. The cathedral was built on the ruins of 3 previous cathedrals, the first being built in the year 337.
The cathedral can be visited, but you will need to pay to get it. The cathedral is open everyday from 08:30 until 20:00. Click here to access their website (in French only).
Tour Charlemagne
11th century Tour Charlemagne
Tour Charlemagne
Tour CharlemagneThe Tour Charlemagne is the last remaining portion of Saint-Martin de Tours basilica. The tower was built in honor of King Charlemagne’s 4th wife who died in the city when he was visiting it. It is rumoured that he had her buried below the tower.
The construction of the basilica started in the 11th century, built over a small chapel built in 437 which housed the tomb of Saint-Martin. Over the centuries, the basilica was destroyed due to wars, revolutions and bad weather. The only remaining structure is this tower.
The tower is being restored.
Basilica Saint-Martin de Tours
The basilica is modest compared to others. It was built in 1886. More on this church in a separate post. Click here to read our review of this basilica.
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Saint Denis Church
The Saint-Denis church was built in 1188 and updated in the 15th century. In 1782 it was removed from the cult, and was turned into housing. Nowadays, it belongs to the city, and has been turned into a music school.
Summary
There are many more churches in Tours. Every two or three blocks will see one.
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