Orléans Cathedral
Religious Site Gothic cathedral notable for Joan of Arc associations
Found in Orléans’ old town, the Cathédrale Sainte‑Croix displays Gothic vaults and stained glass; tourists arrive for architectural detail, historical exhibits and Joan of Arc commemorations nearby.
Orléans Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Croix d’Orléans) is the Roman Catholic cathedral in Orléans, in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France and serves as the seat of the Diocese of Orléans. The building is dedicated to the Holy Cross and occupies a central position in the city.
The cathedral displays Gothic architectural elements and a largely 19th-century appearance due to significant restoration work carried out after earlier damage. It contains a nave, transept and chapels typical of French cathedrals and is an important religious and civic landmark in Orléans.
The cathedral is historically associated with the 1429 relief of Orléans by Joan of Arc and the city’s medieval centre lies close by, on the banks of the Loire River. It is located in the heart of Orléans and is easily reached from the city centre.
- Diocese seat: The cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orléans and is dedicated to the Holy Cross (Sainte-Croix).
- Joan of Arc connection: Closely associated with the 1429 relief of Orléans by Joan of Arc, the cathedral features commemorations of that event.
How to Get to Orléans Cathedral #
The cathedral is a short walk from Orléans train station (Orléans Centre). From the station, head southwest along Rue de la République to the historic center, or take local buses that stop near Place du Martroi.
Tips for Visiting Orléans Cathedral #
- Go early to hear the cathedral's organ practice or to catch light through the stained glass with fewer visitors.
- Stand in Place du Martroi at morning light for a photo that includes the cathedral and Joan of Arc memorials.
- Check service times if wishing to attend mass - the building is active and can close to tourists during ceremonies.
Best Time to Visit Orléans Cathedral #
Spring and early autumn are the best times to visit for comfortable weather and manageable crowds; winter services and events may close areas temporarily.
Weather & Climate near Orléans Cathedral #
Orléans Cathedral's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 1°C to 26°C. Moderate rainfall (649 mm/year).
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 7°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (51 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 9°C. The wettest month with 69 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 26°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 11°C. Moderate rainfall (55 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
