This Ancient Cathedral In France Is Hiding Secrets You Didn't Know!

Located in the heart of Provence, the Fréjus Cathedral is not just a place of worship, it is an ancient architectural puzzle box containing over 1,500 years of secrets. 

Those tourists who steps inside this ancient complex discover a rare survival of early Christian and medieval history that was hidden from the world for centuries.

The “Lost” 5th Century Baptistery

One of the Cathedral's greatest secrets was literally forgotten. The Baptistery, dating back to the 5th century, is the oldest Christian structure in Provence and one of the oldest in France. 

For hundreds of years, this early Christian masterpiece was hidden, it wasn't until 1925 that architect Jules Formige’ rediscovered it. 

Inside the complex, you can still see the original octagonal baptism pool used for full immersion, surrounded by granite columns that were likely inspired from even older Roman temples. 

A “Two-in One” Architectural Mystery

Contrary to most Cathedrals, Frejus is actually the two adjoining churches located under one roof.

The complex features two parallel naves; the Notre-Dame nave (the Bishop's church) and the Saint-Étienne nave (the original parish church). 

During the 13th century, the two were physically brought together by widening the decades, yet they continued to maintain a separate altar, a silent witness to reduce the tensions existing between the bishop and his local community. 

The Cloister’s “Comic-Strip” Ceiling

If you look up while walking through the 13th century cloister, you’ll see a medieval “bestiary” that feels surprisingly modern.

The most fascinating feature that makes the bestiary unique is the larch wood ceiling, which is decorated with 300 surviving painted panels, out of an original 1,200.

Apart from making paintings of saints and angels, the artists also did the paintings of mythical creatures, like dragons, mermaids and centaurs. The paintings also included scenes from the daily life of a butcher, a juggler and even a man and woman answering the call of nature. 

The stairs leading to the upper gallery were built using stone steps taken directly from the Roman amphitheater of Fréjus.

Also Read: The Roman Masterpiece You Won't Believe Is In France!

A Fortified Faith

During the middle ages, the cathedral wasn't just a spiritual center, the complex was designed with a military appearance, featuring thick walls and a high tower topped with machicolations to protect against Saracen pirate raids.

Planning Your Visit?

According to the Frejus Tourist Office the cathedral is centrally located in the old town. While entry to the cathedral is often free, there is a nominal fee that should be paid to access the cloister and see the famous painted ceilings.

Visit on a Saturday to witness the lively atmosphere of local weddings, which frequently took place within this historic setting.