Interior of a cathedral with imposing columns and colorful stained glassView of the interior of a cathedral with imposing columns and colorful stained glass. A person walks down the central aisle, illuminated by natural light filtering through the stained glass. Benches are arranged on either side of the aisle, and the altar is visible at the far end.
©A person walks down the central aisle of this imposing cathedral.|Jim Prod
Cathedral Details

THE LANTERN TOWER

  1. Home
  2. The must see places
  3. Coutances cathedral
  4. The lantern Tower

Known as “the dome”, find out more about Coutances Cathedral’s Lantern Tower

Although the cathedral is symbolised by the two spires that adorn its facade, the Lantern Tower is another of the elements that best represent the cathedral. Extraordinary from the outside, a visit of the upper parts is staggeringly high !

An architectural masterpiece : The Lantern Tower

A typical feature of Norman architecture, the tower is pierced with light, hence its name of lantern tower. Its staggering height above the cathedral floor makes it a remarkable element. The view from the top of the tower is breathtaking. The weight of the tower is supported by 4 pillars of the casement surmounted by 4 pendentives which ensure the pillars are linked to the tower.

Aerial view of Saint-Pierre Cathedral of Rennes and its surroundingsAerial view of Saint-Pierre Cathedral of Rennes, a gothic building with an imposing spire. The cathedral is surrounded by modern buildings and bustling streets. Cars are parked and pedestrians can be seen around the cathedral. The roof of the cathedral is made of slate and the stained glass windows are visible.
©Saint-Pierre Cathedral of Rennes, an architectural gem in the heart of the city.|Jim Prod

    Did you know?

    The lantern tower was once adorned with a spire that was higher than the two spires still in place. During the Second World War, the spire was bombed and burnt down to the height of the bell chamber.

    View of the interior of a cathedral with Gothic arches and colorful stained glassThe interior of a Gothic cathedral featuring tall columns and pointed arches. Natural light filters through colorful stained glass windows, casting luminous patterns on the walls and floor. The pews and altars are arranged symmetrically, creating a solemn and peaceful atmosphere.
    ©Sunlight streams through the stained glass, illuminating the Gothic arches of the cathedral.|Jim Prod
    Facade of a Gothic cathedral with stained glass windows and pointed spiresThe facade of the Gothic cathedral features colorful stained glass windows and characteristic pointed spires. The stone structure is detailed with complex arches and sculptures. The blue sky in the background highlights the imposing architecture.
    ©The Gothic cathedral stands majestically under a clear sky.|Teddy Bear
    Person standing on a Gothic cathedral balconyA person stands on a stone balcony of a Gothic cathedral, admiring the interior architecture. The columns and Gothic arches are clearly visible, along with the sculpted details. Natural light illuminates the architectural details.
    ©A person admires the impressive architecture of a Gothic cathedral.
    Gothic cathedral vault with stained glass windows and ornate columnsThis image shows a detailed view of a Gothic cathedral vault. The ribs of the vault are adorned with intricate sculptures. Colorful stained glass windows allow diffused light to enter, illuminating the columns and flying buttresses. The architectural details are finely crafted, reflecting the craftsmanship of the medieval period.
    ©The architectural beauty of Gothic vaults and colorful stained glass.

         Important information

      • Total height: 57 meters (187 ft)
      • Bell chamber at the top
      • 41 meter high vault (134.5ft)
      • Circulation gallery (for visiting the upper parts)
      • Square tower outside and octagonal tower inside
      • The corners are surrounded by 4 stair turrets that serve as buttresses
      • 4 big pillars hold the whole thing together

      How to visit ?   

      • Open to the public during the cathedral’s opening hours
      • Free visit with information on the cathedral published by the Pays d’Art et d’Histoire [the local heritage organisation] (free)
      • Audio-guided tour: audioguides for hire at the tourist office (€3)
      • Guided tour of the lower parts (Reservations at the Tourist office)
      • Guided tour of the upper parts (Reservations at the Tourist office)
      Cathedral

      OTHER DISCOVERIES ABOUT ITS ARCHITECTURE

      View of the interior of a Gothic cathedral with columns and stained glassThe interior of a Gothic cathedral features tall stone columns and colorful stained glass windows. The light filtering through the stained glass creates a serene and mystical atmosphere. The columns are adorned with intricate architectural details, typical of Gothic architecture.
      ©The majestic interior of a Gothic cathedral, with its imposing columns and colorful stained glass.|Aymeric Picot
      The chapels
      Magnificently adorned chapels: walk along the side aisles Sitting along the north and south side aisles of the cathedral, the chapels stand out thanks to their incredible...
      Baroque grand organ with metal pipes and wooden sculpturesDetailed view of a baroque grand organ located in a church. The metal pipes are arranged in vertical rows, with ornate wooden sculptures and complex architectural details. The dominant colors are dark wood and silver metal, with touches of gilding. A wooden sculpted figure is visible at the bottom right, supporting part of the organ.
      ©The baroque organ, with its metal pipes and wooden sculptures, is a masterpiece of art and music.|Alexandre Poirier
      The organ
      The great organ of Coutances cathedral The organ in the cathedral was originally built for the abbey of Savigny Le Vieux. It was then purchased and installed, with new piping,...
      Stained glass depicting biblical scenes in a cathedralView of a detailed stained glass window in a cathedral, depicting biblical scenes with vibrant colors. The figures and patterns are finely detailed, creating a spiritual and artistic atmosphere. The stained glass is framed by stone structures, typical of Gothic architecture.
      ©The cathedral's stained glass tells biblical stories through its vibrant colors.|Aymeric Picot
      the stained glass windows
      The stained glass windows of Coutances Cathedral: pure magnificence Visitors to Coutances can admire one of the most beautiful sets of medieval stained glass windows in Normandy.
      Aerial view of the interior of a Gothic cathedral with columns and pewsThis image depicts the interior of a Gothic cathedral with tall columns and pointed arches. Wooden pews are arranged in neat rows, and natural light filters through colorful stained-glass windows. The floor is made of stone, and the detailed architecture of the ceiling draws the eye upward.
      ©The imposing architecture and intricate details of this Gothic cathedral captivate visitors.
      Visiting the upper parts of the cathedral
      An original, unprecedented and fabulous visit You have probably heard of the magnificent Coutances Cathedral and have probably already visited it. What we are offering you here...