Fréjus Cathedral, Fréjus

This cathedral in central Fréjus is part of a larger fortified medieval complex

featured in Sights & sites

Dating back to the 5th century when the baptistery was built makes it the oldest in the Provence region and one of the oldest in France. At this ancient, Merovingian style baptistery you can still see a 5th century baptismal basin for full immersion, as well as Roman columns.

The first bishop of Fréjus was Saint Leontinus of Fréjus who started the church here for the first time, hence it's referred to as Cathedrale Saint Leonce.

The cloisters were built between the 11th and 14th centuries: a series of pointed arches resting on double Corinthian columns surround the small patio. The ceilings are painted with beautiful small medieval images made in the second half of the 14th century. They depict the Virgin Mary and the infant Christ, Saint Peter, canons, priests, demons, angels, animals and fantastic creatures like a mermaid, a dragon or a centaur. There are also very interesting depictions of normal people, such as a butcher, a juggler or a knight.

Entry into the cloister is charged for, and if you're there on a Saturday you may be lucky enough to catch one of the many weddings that take place within the cathedral.

Worth knowing

Guided tours are available in both French and English if you reserve in advance, and last around 40 minutes. But you can also pick up a 'self-guided' tour which is available in French, English, German, Spanish and Italian.

Visitor comments

"The cloitre is small but well kept, located in the middle of the old Frejus, next to the Cathedral. If you are touring that part of the city it would be a shame not to go. I enjoyed it a lot." - Trip Advisor
"This is worth a visit if only to see the beautiful carved wood work and ceilings absolutely fantastic. The guide, even though we ended up on a French tour, was courteous and threw a little English in, and the doors at the entrance are unbelievable. Well worth a visit" - Trip Advisor
"If you enjoy the mystery of past decades, then you will love walking the cobbled path of this fascinating Cathedral area" - Trip Advisor