article | Reading time2 min
Discover the monumental spire of Autun cathedral, a symbol of power and rivalry in the 15th century.
The cathedral's roofs have evolved over the years, changing the structure and shape of the building. Restored in the 13th century following a fire, they were reworked when the spire was built to replace the Romanesque tower destroyed by lightning in 1465.
The spire, which rises to a height of almost 93 metres, testifies to the power of its patron (Cardinal Jean Rolin) and the support given to the project by Duke Philippe le Bon. The aim of this monumental signal was to show the cathedral's superiority over the nearby church of Notre-Dame-du-Châtel in Autun (now Place Saint-Louis).
The cathedral's spire rises above the transept crossing. Octagonal in shape, it rests on a square base and impresses with the lightness of its structure.
Its height is a real technical feat: the thickness of the stones gradually decreases from 32 cm at the base to just 16 cm at the top. The edges of the spire are decorated with hooks carved in the shape of cabbage leaves, adding a touch of plant life to the overall effect.
At its base, a first register is made up of blind bays, surmounted by open bays allowing the sound of the bells to be broadcast throughout the town.
Centre des monuments nationaux / Moteur&Action
