Cahors - Cathédrale Saint-Étienne

The Cahors Cathedral was erected between 1080 and 1135. It got consecrated by Pope Calixtus II in 1119. The same pope, who two years later could imprison his rival "Antipope" Gregory VIII. Four years later, Calixtus ended the Investiture Controversy by agreeing with Emperor Henry V on the Concordat of Worms.

During the times of medieval pilgrimage this cathedral was an important place on the "Via Podiensis", as the "Sainte Coiffe" could be venerated here. This "Holy Headdress" was believed to have been used during Jesus' burial. It had been given to Aymatus, Bishop of Cahors, by Charlemagne. A relic similar to the "Shroud of Turin".

On the northern side of the cathedral, this intricate Romanesque portal faces the "Via Podiensis". This was what the pilgrims saw first - and this portal they used entering the basilica. Christ in a mandorla, surrounded by angles- Below are Mary and the Apostles. The carvings are already soft and elegant. They are dated to 1130/1140.