Montpellier Cathedral

Montpellier Cathedral, also known locally as Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Montpellier, stands as a magnificent testament to Gothic architecture in the heart of the old city of Montpellier, France. This grand structure, with its imposing presence and rich history, is the largest church in the former Languedoc-Roussillon region and a quintessential example of a cathedral-fortress.

The Origins of Montpellier Cathedral

The origins of Montpellier Cathedral date back to 1364 when it was initially established as the chapel of the Saint-Benoît Saint-Germain monastery-college by Pope Urban V. It wasn't until 1536 that this chapel was elevated to cathedral status, coinciding with the relocation of the episcopal seat from Maguelone to Montpellier.

Transformation and Turmoil

The cathedral's transformation from a chapel to a cathedral was marked by significant architectural and historical milestones. Four towers rose at the corners of the nave, although one was demolished during the Protestant iconoclast movements of 1567. This period of religious conflict left its mark on the cathedral, which was fortified to withstand attacks, earning it the nickname Fort Saint-Pierre by the late 16th century.

The entrance to the cathedral is dominated by a massive porch, characterized by two cylindrical pillars and a vault connecting the pillars to the church's façade. These elements are among the few remnants of the medieval architecture that can still be seen today. The original structure featured a single vessel with five bays, delineating fourteen side chapels dedicated to various saints, including Saint Germain, Saint Victor, Saint Blaise, and others.

The Wars of Religion

The cathedral's history is inextricably linked to the turbulent period of the Wars of Religion. On October 20, 1561, the cathedral was besieged and attacked by Protestant forces. Accounts of the event vary, with some chroniclers reporting as few as eight deaths and others suggesting up to eight hundred casualties. Regardless of the exact number, the attack led to significant looting and destruction.

In 1567, another assault by Protestant forces resulted in the collapse of one of the cathedral's towers, causing extensive damage to the structure. The canons of the cathedral sought refuge in nearby towns until the end of the siege by Louis XIII in 1622. Restoration efforts were later undertaken, including the rebuilding of the vaults, nave pavement, and façade, under the guidance of Pierre Froment and Bertrand Delane.

19th Century Expansions

The 19th century saw further enhancements to Montpellier Cathedral under the direction of Henri Antoine Revoil. Between 1855 and 1875, the tower and bell tower were reconstructed, and radiating chapels were added to the choir. The roof of the choir was adorned with Burgundian-style glazed tiles, and the sculptural decoration of the tower and tympanum was redone by Auguste Baussan in the style of the 13th century.

The cathedral's stained glass windows, created by Édouard Didron and Paul Nicod, were installed between 1870 and 1872. Additionally, a painting by Sébastien Bourdon, depicting The Fall of Simon the Magician, an apocryphal episode from the life of Saint Peter, can be found in the right transept.

The Grand Organ

The grand organ of Montpellier Cathedral is a masterpiece in its own right. Commissioned by Bishop Monseigneur de Malide in 1775, the organ was built by Jean-François Lépine. Over the years, the organ has undergone numerous restorations and enhancements, including the addition of an electric blower in 1923 and a major restoration in 1978 by the Kern company of Strasbourg.

In 1985, as part of the celebrations for Montpellier's millennium, the cathedral's lighting was completely refurbished, bringing the grand organ out of obscurity. More recent restorations in 2011 further enhanced the organ's capabilities, ensuring its continued prominence in the cathedral's musical life.

The Bells of Montpellier Cathedral

The cathedral boasts a remarkable collection of seven bells, including four swinging bells used for religious purposes and three chiming bells for the clock. The four swinging bells, cast in 1867 by Hildebrand A. in Paris, were donated by Bishop Monseigneur Lecourtier and installed in 1870. The largest of these bells, known as François, weighs nearly four tons and is the deepest swinging bell in the Languedoc-Roussillon region.

The three chiming bells, cast in 1730 by Pierre Gor and his son Jacques, are housed in a wrought iron campanile atop the tower. These bells have been an integral part of the cathedral's history for centuries, marking the passage of time for the city of Montpellier.

A Living Monument

Montpellier Cathedral is not just a historical relic; it is a living monument that continues to play a vital role in the religious and cultural life of the city. Designated as a minor basilica in 1847 and elevated to a metropolitan cathedral in 2002, it stands as a symbol of resilience and continuity amidst the ever-changing tides of history.

Visitors to Montpellier Cathedral are sure to be captivated by its awe-inspiring architecture, rich history, and the sense of timelessness that pervades its ancient walls. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this grand edifice is an unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into the soul of Montpellier and the enduring legacy of its past.