Cahors - Cathédrale Saint-Étienne

The Cahors Cathedral was erected between 1080 and1135. 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.

Seen from "Croix Magne" are the Cathédrale Saint-Étienne´s domes, the most prominent features. These massive, 32 m-high, domes are huge! There was even a third one, that collapsed in the 13th century. This dome was, where the rectangular Gothic choir (1280) is now. The cathedral´s castle-like, west-facing entrance section/bell- tower was added end of the 13th / early 14th century.

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".