Orléans Cathedral Religious Site

Address: Cathédrale Sainte-Croix d’Orléans, Place Sainte-Croix, 45000 Orléans, France

Website: http://www.cathedrale-orleans.fr/

Hours: Generally open daily 8:00-18:00; hours vary with services and events.

Admission: Free to enter (active cathedral); donations accepted. Tower access/museum may have small fee.

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.

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.

• 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.