Autun:
Cathedral of St. Lazarus (Gislebertus' Sculptures)
Autun : Cathedral of St. Lazarus (Gislebertus' Sculptures)
Step into the sacred heart of Autun on this immersive walking tour, where history, art, and faith converge. Explore the Cathedral of St. Lazarus, home to the remarkable Gislebertus’ sculptures, which depict biblical stories with breathtaking detail and medieval craftsmanship.
Walk through the centuries-old streets of Autun, soaking in its rich Romanesque architecture, charming squares, and spiritual heritage. Discover the artistic and religious significance of the cathedral, learn about the saints and legends associated with it, and experience the profound devotion that has drawn pilgrims and art lovers for generations.
Whether you’re on a pilgrimage, a cultural journey, or simply exploring France’s historic treasures, this tour of Autun will leave you inspired and enriched.
Tour Highlights
- Visit the Cathedral of St. Lazarus, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture adorned with the world-famous Gislebertus sculptures.
- Explore the intricate carvings that depict biblical stories and medieval symbolism, reflecting the deep faith and artistry of 12th-century France.
- Stroll through the historic streets of Autun, soaking in centuries of heritage, charming squares, and timeless Christian tradition.
- Pause at key sites around the cathedral, appreciating panoramic views of the town and its sacred landmarks.
- Discover hidden details in the sculptures that tell stories of devotion, miracles, and local legends, offering insight into the spiritual and cultural history of Autun.
- Conclude your visit with a moment of reflection inside the cathedral, leaving inspired by its art, history, and enduring faith.
More Information
Duration : 2 Hours
Language : 
English | 
French | 
Spanish | 
German | 
Italian | 
Portuguese | 
Polish
Tour Inclusions: Experienced tour guide, Entrance to the Cathedral of St. Lazarus, Small group experience
Tour Exclusions: Personal expenses, hotel pickup, Food and drinks, Transportation to/from Autun, optional donations, Entrance Fees
Distance: Approximately 1.5 km
Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible
Meeting Point: Please arrive 10 minutes early in front of the main entrance of the Cathedral of St. Lazarus (Place Saint-Lazare, Autun, France). Your guide will meet you at the main doors. See the Google map for reference.
Autun: Cathedral of St. Lazarus (Gislebertus’ Sculptures)
Step into the historic heart of Autun on this immersive walking tour, where art, faith, and medieval history converge. Your journey begins at the Cathedral of St. Lazarus, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture renowned for the intricate sculptures by Gislebertus. Explore the stunning carvings that depict biblical stories, the Last Judgment, and sacred figures — a testament to the medieval devotion and craftsmanship that continues to inspire visitors today.
Next, admire the cathedral’s magnificent interior, including its chapels, frescoes, and sacred relics, while learning about the life of Saint Lazarus and the cathedral’s pivotal role in Autun’s spiritual history. Discover the fascinating history of the cathedral’s construction, its architectural significance, and the symbolism behind its sculptural masterpieces.
Continue your exploration through the charming medieval streets of Autun, where every corner tells a story of centuries past. Admire the town’s stone buildings, quaint squares, and historic landmarks, capturing the essence of this ancient episcopal city.
Pause at key sites such as the Romain Theatre, the city walls, and local fountains, gaining insight into Autun’s Roman and medieval heritage, its local traditions, and enduring spiritual significance.
Your tour concludes back at the Cathedral of St. Lazarus, providing a moment for reflection and appreciation. Leave with a deeper understanding of Autun’s sacred history, the remarkable artistry of Gislebertus, and the enduring influence of faith and medieval culture on this captivating French town.
Autun: Cathedral of St. Lazarus (Gislebertus’ Sculptures)
Nestled in the historic city of Autun in the Burgundy region of France, the Cathedral of St. Lazarus is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and one of the most important spiritual and cultural landmarks of the region. Visitors are drawn not only by its architectural grandeur but also by the remarkable sculptures of Gislebertus, which vividly depict biblical scenes, the Last Judgment, and sacred figures, offering insight into medieval Christian faith and artistry.
Gislebertus’ Sculptures and Sacred Art
The cathedral is renowned for its intricate stone carvings, created by the master sculptor Gislebertus in the 12th century. These works portray profound biblical narratives and moral lessons, designed to inspire and educate the faithful. The west portal, with its Last Judgment scene, remains one of the most celebrated masterpieces of Romanesque sculpture in Europe. Inside, the cathedral houses stunning frescoes, chapels, and relics that trace the history of Saint Lazarus and the cathedral’s spiritual significance through the centuries.
Saint Lazarus and Autun’s Religious Heritage
Autun itself has been a center of Christian devotion since Roman times. Saint Lazarus, the cathedral’s patron, is remembered for his sanctity and connection to early Christian traditions in the region. Pilgrims and visitors can explore the cathedral’s sacred spaces, meditate in its chapels, and gain a deep appreciation for the enduring faith that shaped the city’s spiritual and artistic heritage.
Medieval Autun: Walking Through History
Beyond the cathedral, the streets of Autun are a treasure trove of medieval and Roman history. Wander through historic squares, admire ancient stone buildings, and visit key landmarks such as the Romain Theatre, the city walls, and local fountains. Each corner of the town tells a story of centuries past, blending spiritual devotion with cultural richness.
A Journey of Faith and Art
Your tour concludes at the Cathedral of St. Lazarus, offering a moment for reflection and admiration of its architectural and artistic splendor. Visitors leave with a deeper understanding of Autun’s sacred history, the genius of Gislebertus’ sculptures, and the timeless Christian faith that continues to resonate through this captivating French city.
- Dress Code: Dress with an appropriate dress code for religious sites
- Walking & Terrain: The tour involves walking approximately 1.2–1.5 km over cobblestone streets, some gentle slopes, and uneven surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
- Weather & Clothing: Bolsena’s weather can vary—dress in layers and bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially in warmer months.
- Respectful Conduct: Many stops include sacred sites like the Basilica, catacombs, and chapels. Please maintain respectful silence and follow the guide’s instructions.
- Photography: Photos are welcome except where restricted inside sacred areas. Please respect local customs and signage.
- Accessibility: If you have mobility concerns, please inform us before booking so we can assist or recommend alternatives.
- Language: The tour is conducted in the selected at the reservation stage. Private or multilingual guide options are available upon request.
- Health & Safety: Please follow any current health protocols. Inform your guide of allergies or medical needs.
- Local Etiquette: Bolsena is a living community with religious traditions—please be courteous to locals and worshippers.
- Kids: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.
- Minimum Participants: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon.
- Weather Conditions: Our tours operate in all weather conditions; however, in the event of adverse or unsafe weather, the tour may be cancelled, rescheduled, or modified for safety reasons. In such cases, suitable alternative arrangements or remedies will be considered depending on the circumstances.
Personal Items: Carry light; a small bag or backpack for water, camera, and essentials is recommended.
- Full Refund: The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time for a full refund
- Time Zone: Local time is applied in the event of cancellation.
- Changes: Any changes to be made before 24 hours to the departure
- No Refund: Any changes or cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start time will not be eligible for a refund.
- Group Size: The tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If this requirement is not met, the tour may be rescheduled, cancelled, or rearranged as a private tour, with any additional costs to be agreed upon. A full refund will be provided if the tour is cancelled due to the minimum number of participants.
- Tour Guide Availability & Language Limitations: We specialize in tours to uncommon and unique religious destinations that are often unavailable on standard tours. Due to limited local guide availability, the requested language may not always be available. In such cases, we will offer alternative options before rescheduling or cancelling the tour. If no alternatives are feasible, the tour may be rescheduled or cancelled, with a full refund provided.
- Pricing Considerations: We strive to offer competitive pricing, but in some cases, limited supplier availability may affect costs.
- Our Mission: As a Catholic tour operator, our primary goal is to provide a meaningful spiritual experience. We focus on destinations that are rarely included in standard tours, ensuring your journey is both unique and spiritually enriching.
Plan Your Visit to Autun
Discover the easiest ways to reach, stay, and explore Autun, a historic city in Burgundy, France, renowned for its rich medieval heritage and the magnificent Cathedral of St. Lazarus with Gislebertus’ sculptures. Travel times are approximate and may vary with schedules and traffic.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some of the links in this section are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you use them to make a purchase or booking—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and products we genuinely trust. For more details, please see our Affiliate Policy and the UK Advertising Standards Authority guidance on affiliate marketing.
Airport Meet & Assist Services
For a smooth travel experience, take advantage of Meet & Assist services available at major airports near Autun, including Lyon-Saint Exupéry (LYS), Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), and Geneva (GVA). A dedicated assistant can help with luggage, check-in, and security for a stress-free start or end to your journey.
By Air
Lyon-Saint Exupéry (LYS) – ~150 km | Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) – ~400 km | Geneva (GVA) – ~250 km
Approx. 1.5–4 hours by car or train.
From airports, rent a car or take a train to Autun via Dijon.
Find the Best Flights – Book your flights with Expedia
By Train
Nearest Station: Autun Station
From Paris Gare de Lyon: ~2.5–3 hours | From Dijon: ~1 hour
Direct trains and regional services connect Autun with major French cities.
Find the Best Trains – Book your Trains with Omio
By Car
Drive along scenic routes connecting Dijon, Lyon, and Chalon-sur-Saône.
From Dijon: ~1 hour | From Lyon: ~2 hours
Parking available near the Cathedral and historic city center.
Find the Best Rent a Car – Rent your car with Centauto
By Bus
Regional buses connect Autun with Dijon, Chalon-sur-Saône, and surrounding towns.
Timetables vary — check before travelling.
Find the Best Buses – Book your Buses with Omio
By Taxi / Private Transfer
Enjoy a direct, comfortable trip from nearby cities or airports.
Ideal for small groups or travelers with luggage.
Private Transfers – Book your private transfer with Welcome Pickups
On Foot / Locally
Autun is a compact, walkable city.
All main attractions, including the Cathedral of St. Lazarus, Romanesque churches, city walls, and medieval squares, are easily explored on foot.
Where to Stay in Autun
Choose accommodation within walking distance of the Cathedral or historic center: boutique hotels, charming guesthouses, or family-run B&Bs.
Hotels & B&Bs| 
Unique Local Stays
Find the Best Hotels – Book your Hotels with Expedia or Agoda
Experiences & Activities
Enhance your visit with cultural and historical tours, or explore nearby Burgundy vineyards and heritage towns.
Book Tours & Activities
Find the Best Tours & Activities
Find tours & day trips on GetYourGuide
Explore cultural & religious tours on Viator
Travel Essentials
Prepare for your visit to Autun with the right gear and travel essentials.
Find the Best Travel Essentials
Find your travel accessories on Amazon
Find your Travel Insurance
Religious & Devotional Items
Even if you cannot visit in person, bring a piece of Autun’s spiritual heritage home. Explore authentic devotional items inspired by Saint Lazarus and the Cathedral’s sacred art.
Find the Best Religious & Devotional Items
Find your Religious & Devotional Items on Amazon
Note:
All times, prices, and details are approximate and may vary depending on schedules, seasons, or provider updates. Always check current travel information before booking.
Travel Tip
Combine train + local taxi or rental car for the smoothest arrival from Lyon, Paris, or Geneva — the perfect blend of comfort and flexibility.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some of the links in this section are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you use them to make a purchase or booking—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and products we genuinely trust. For more details, please see our Affiliate Policy and the UK Advertising Standards Authority guidance on affiliate marketing.
Discover the places that matter most to you, even if you’re staying only a short time.
We create fully personalised pilgrimage routes and custom tours designed around your faith, interests and schedule. Whether you want to visit a sacred shrine, a historic basilica, a monastery on a hilltop, or a lesser-known religious site that few travellers reach, we’ll make it possible.
To help you save time, we can arrange private pickup from the airports, ports, Rail Stations or directly from your accommodation. Our team ensures you have direct, stress-free access to the religious destinations you may not have another chance to visit again.
Every itinerary is crafted with care: Private transfers to and from holy sites, Flexible schedules for prayer, reflection, and guided visits, Local experts to share history, spirituality, and traditions, Tailor-made tours for individuals, couples, families, or parish groups
If there’s a special tour or pilgrimage tied to a destination close to your heart, let us know — we’ll create a meaningful journey crafted just for you. Contact us to get a quotation for your personalised tour request.
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