Béziers Cathedral
Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire de Béziers
A Gothic fortress-cathedral standing on a hilltop above the Orb River. It is the symbol of Béziers, and its rear garden overlooks the river valley.
Saint-Nazaire Cathedral was begun in the 13th and 14th centuries. It was rebuilt after the massacre of Béziers by Albigensian Crusaders in 1209. Its heavy towers and fortress-like walls reflect its defensive character. The rose window on the west façade is about 10 metres in diameter. Inside are a Gothic cloister and the bishop's garden. From the garden terrace you can look down over the Orb River, the old bridge, and the canal in the distance. Entry to the cathedral is free. Climbing the tower costs extra and has limited opening hours. From Allées Paul Riquet, it is an uphill walk of about 10 minutes.
Opening hours
About 09:00–18:00 (may close at midday)
Nearby sights
- Halles de Béziers
- Pont Vieux (Béziers)
- Église de la Madeleine, Béziers
- Musée du Biterrois
- Allées Paul Riquet
- Basilica of Saint-Aphrodise
- Orb Aqueduct
- Plateau des Poètes