Basilique Saint-Sernin

The Basilique Saint-Sernin is a remarkable Romanesque-styled religious treasure from the 11th century. The church is well-known for its numerous historical relics, the gold and pink colors of its façade, and its lofty bell tower. Take pictures of this magnificent church from a distance and different perspectives.

Admire the Romanesque arches at the base of the tower's imposing bell as you look up at it. The spire, which was built in the 1400s, is slightly skewed. Examine the intriguing Porte des Miégeville and Porte des Comtes doors, which are encircled by ornate carvings and decorative details.

As you enter the building, take in the expansive nave's airy atmosphere. One of the features is the altar, which Pope Urban II dedicated in 1096. Examine the sizable three-manual organ built by renowned organ builder Cavaillé-Coll in the 19th century.

Observe some of the church's artwork as you stroll into the nave, such as the bust of Louis of Toulouse and the enormous crucifix in front of the vibrant stained-glass windows. Read the numerous educational plaques in a variety of languages to learn more about the background and significance of the church's key design elements.

Discover the spectacular ambulatory, also known as the déambulatoire, which is a hallway filled with ornate marble sculptures in the nooks and crannies of the church's internal walls. Explore the spooky crypt to find the graves of St. Saturnin and St. Honoratus, along with those of several other important religious leaders. The first bishop of Toulouse, the former, is said to have perished after being tethered to a bull.

The church's ambulatory, which is open every day from early dawn until late at night, charges a fee to access.

Near Toulouse's town center, to the north, is the Basilique Saint-Sernin. To get here in a short amount of time, take the metro to the Compans Caffarelli, Jean-Jaurès, or Capitole stations. Be sure to visit surrounding sights including the Saint-Pierre Square, Carmelite Chapel, and the University Garden.