Saint-Vincent Cathedral
Cathédrale Saint-Vincent de Saint-Malo
A Romanesque and Gothic cathedral in the heart of the old town, rebuilt after the war with modern stained glass, and home to the tomb of explorer Jacques Cartier.
Saint-Vincent Cathedral sits at the centre of Saint-Malo’s old town. Begun in the 12th century, it combines a Romanesque nave with a Gothic choir. In August 1944, its spire and roof were destroyed in the fighting, and it took decades to restore after the war.
The most striking feature inside is the modern stained glass installed in the second half of the 20th century, which on sunny days fills the nave with blues, purples, golds and reds. Explorer Jacques Cartier was blessed here before setting out in 1535 to explore Canada, and his tomb is also inside the church, marked by a plaque on the floor. Admission is free; please keep quiet during Mass. The cathedral is in the pedestrian area of the old town and fits well into a walk along the ramparts.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:30–18:00
Nearby sights
- Saint-Malo Intra-Muros
- Piscine de Bon-Secours
- Fort National
- Grand Bé
- Fort du Petit Bé
- Mémorial 39-45
- Tour Solidor
- Plage du Sillon