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After more than 20 years of work on the western facade and the roof of the Sainte-Marie cathedral d'Auch: “we're off again for a ride”! This time it's up to stained glass by Arnaut de Moles that we offer a second youth.
500 years of history ...
On June 25, 2013, the work of master glassmaker Arnaut de Moles, rich in its shimmering colors and technical details, celebrated its 500th candle.
Classified as a Historic Monument since 1862, well before the cathedral (classified since 1906), these glass roofs have stood the test of time, being subject to increased protection. They were notably removed in 1940, in order to avoid their degradation during the Second World War, before returning to their place in 1944.
A large-scale project
Although arrived in the 18st century in a rare state of conservation (all of Arnaut de Moles' XNUMX glass roofs are still in place), this ensemble now needs restoration to preserve its uniqueness.
Since November 2017, restoration work has started on the 3 glass roofs and the high window that make up the Saint-Louis chapel (1st chapel on the right forming the rounded part of the cathedral on this plan) and will continue for 1 year . These will serve as a model for the restoration of the 13 chapels of the chevet, and their glass roofs (red section of the plan opposite). This project will extend over ten years.
One artist, two eras ...
The construction of the Cathedral spanning nearly two centuries, its architecture and stained-glass windows bear witness to the stylistic evolution of the time. Between flamboyant Gothic and Renaissance styles differ, but the magic operates ...
We often notice the delicacy of Arnaut de Moles' drawing. This one is very characteristic because of the technique used, recent for the craftsmen of 1513: cutting the glass using a diamond point, which allows a much more complex pruning.
For the curious little ones
During the school holidays, the Land of Art and History of Grand Auch offers little DIY enthusiasts the opportunity to come and discover the secrets of these works. The children join the master glassmaker's workshop and make their own stained-glass windows, in the manner of Arnaut de Moles. Watch our agenda online !
Visit the Sainte-Marie cathedral
All year :
- 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 14 p.m. to 18 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 14 p.m. to 18 p.m. Sunday (excluding services)
- On a guided tour with the tour guides of the Land of art and history of Grand Auch.
