Once capital of the Cottian Alps, then ecclesiastical capital from the 4th century onwards under the impetus of Saint Marcellin, Embrun boasts the largest monument in the French Alps, the Cathédrale Notre Dame du Réal.
Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it earned the name “du Réal” in reference to the many kings who came to worship there, following Louis XI, who is said to have found healing there.
Situated on the Arles-Briançon road, Embrun prospered thanks to trade and pilgrimages, and between the 11th and 13th centuries built an imposing cathedral on the site of an earlier edifice destroyed by the Saracens.
Its Romanesque style was already influenced by Gothic and largely inspired by the Lombard tradition.
While the interior features a 53-meter-long, 22-meter-high central nave of alternating black and white stone, flanked by two side naves, the exterior is equally striking.
The porch, supported by 4 columns, 2 of which are decorated with lions, houses a remarkable fresco depicting the adoration of the Magi, said to possess miraculous virtues...
Note the bell tower with its many geminated windows and octagonal spire.
Don't miss the treasure trove in the Saint-François chapel, featuring remarkable vestments and liturgical objects.
La Cathédrale Notre-Dame du Réal,
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