The Tour de France is not only a celebration of athletic prowess but also a journey through some of Europe’s most culturally and architecturally rich locations. The 2024 route offers a unique opportunity to explore several magnificent Gothic cathedrals in the start and finish cities. Let’s take a closer look at these remarkable Gothic cathedrals!
1. Florence, Italy - Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore
- Construction: Began in 1296 and completed in 1436.
- Highlights: Known for its massive dome designed by Brunelleschi and its marble facade. The cathedral is a masterpiece of Italian Gothic and Renaissance architecture, with its striking red dome dominating the Florence skyline.
2. Piacenza, Italy - Duomo di Piacenza
- Construction: Built between 1122 and 1233.
- Highlights: This cathedral combines Romanesque and Gothic elements. The facade and decorations showcase beautiful details characteristic of the transitional period between Romanesque and Gothic styles.
3. Turin, Italy - Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista
- Construction: Built between 1491 and 1498.
- Highlights: The highlight of this cathedral is the Shroud of Turin, one of the most venerated and controversial religious relics in the world.
4. Dijon, France - Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne
- Construction: Built between 1280 and 1314.
- Highlights: An excellent example of Burgundian Gothic architecture, featuring an impressive 11th-century crypt and unique architectural style reflecting the region’s rich religious heritage.
- By the way, don’t forget to visit the Notre-Dame of Dijon!
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5. Semur-en-Auxois, France - Notre-Dame
- Construction: Built between 1225 and 1476.
- Highlights: This is not a cathedral, but a ‘collegial’ church and too beautiful not to mention here. A collegial church is served by a group of clergy called canons and does not have a bishop’s seat (in contrary to a cathedral).
The Notre-Dame of Semur-en-Auxois is unique for its well-preserved Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements. Built in the 13th century, it features a harmonious blend of styles, including a stunning Gothic façade with twin towers and intricate sculptures.
Inside, the church boasts beautiful stained glass windows and an impressive rib-vaulted ceiling, showcasing the evolution of medieval church architecture. The church is also notable for its historical significance and its location within the picturesque medieval town of Semur-en-Auxois.
6. Troyes, France - Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul
- Construction: Began in the 13th century and completed in the 17th century.
- Highlights: Famous for its stunning stained glass windows that depict a wide range of biblical stories and medieval artworks.
7. Orléans, France - Cathédrale Sainte-Croix
- Construction: Began in the 13th century and completed in the 17th century.
- Highlights: Famous for its stunning stained glass windows that depict a wide range of biblical stories and medieval artworks.
Which city would you like to visit this year?
About the TOUR DE FRANCE
The Tour de France, started in 1903, is the world’s most famous cycling race and is held annually. This event was originally organized to boost the sales of the newspaper L’Auto.
In this year, 2024, the tour begins in Florence (Italy) and ends in Nice (France) with stages passing through cities such as Rimini, Bologna, Turin, Dijon, Orléans, and Pau. The route of the Tour de France is determined annually by the organization ASO (Amaury Sport Organisation) in collaboration with cities and regions interested in hosting stages. Factors such as safety, logistics, and challenging courses are considered.
Culture plays a significant role in the Tour de France, with TV coverage often highlighting notable buildings such as churches and cathedrals, and showcasing the rich history and local traditions of the areas the race passes through. These cultural elements enrich the viewing experience and highlight the diversity and beauty of the route.
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