Metz Cathedral
Cathédrale Saint-Étienne de Metz
Known as the “Lantern of God,” it has the largest expanse of stained glass in France, including modern windows created by Chagall.
Metz Cathedral was built between the 13th and 16th centuries using local yellow Jaumont limestone. Its nave rises about 42 meters, making it one of the tallest Gothic naves in France. The cathedral's stained glass covers roughly 6,500 square meters and spans from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Its Chagall windows are especially famous, and they are a major reason the cathedral is called the “Lantern of God.” Entry to the cathedral is free; the treasury and crypt charge admission. Metz is about 55 km from Nancy, roughly 40 minutes by train, and the cathedral can be combined with the Metz branch of the Centre Pompidou for a day trip.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–18:00 (visits restricted during Sunday morning mass)
Nearby sights
- Marché Couvert de Metz
- Musée de la Cour d'Or
- Opéra-Théâtre de Metz & Place de la Comédie
- Temple Neuf
- Basilique Saint-Vincent
- Place Saint-Louis
- L'Esplanade & Plan d'Eau
- Basilica of Saint-Pierre-aux-Nonnains