Cloitre Saint-Trophime (St. Trophime Cloister), Arles (must see)
The Saint Trophime Cloister is an architectural gem located in the old cathedral of Arles. Dating back to the 12th and 14th centuries, this cloister showcases remarkable craftsmanship and holds immense historical and artistic significance.
One notable feature of the Saint Trophime Cloister is its unconventional location. Unlike most cloisters that are attached to the nave or transept of a cathedral, this cloister is connected to the choir through a staircase consisting of twenty-five steps.
The construction of the cloister commenced around 1150 with the building of the north gallery, followed shortly by the east gallery. However, it wasn't until the end of the 14th century, under the episcopate of Jean de Rochechouart (1390-1398), that the cloister was fully completed. The western gallery and then the southern gallery were constructed during this period. As a result, the cloister exhibits two distinct architectural styles for its galleries. The north and east galleries feature Romanesque elements, while the west and south galleries embody Gothic influences.
The Saint Trophime Cloister exemplifies a quest for visual perfection, characterized by a harmonious balance of volumes and exquisite sculpted decorations. Its architectural design and meticulous craftsmanship highlight the skilled work of the artisans involved in its creation.
Recognized as a historical monument since 1846, the Saint Trophime Cloister has received significant acclaim. It has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Roman and Romanesque monuments of Arles since 1981. This prestigious status underscores its exceptional cultural value and its contribution to the architectural heritage of the region.
One notable feature of the Saint Trophime Cloister is its unconventional location. Unlike most cloisters that are attached to the nave or transept of a cathedral, this cloister is connected to the choir through a staircase consisting of twenty-five steps.
The construction of the cloister commenced around 1150 with the building of the north gallery, followed shortly by the east gallery. However, it wasn't until the end of the 14th century, under the episcopate of Jean de Rochechouart (1390-1398), that the cloister was fully completed. The western gallery and then the southern gallery were constructed during this period. As a result, the cloister exhibits two distinct architectural styles for its galleries. The north and east galleries feature Romanesque elements, while the west and south galleries embody Gothic influences.
The Saint Trophime Cloister exemplifies a quest for visual perfection, characterized by a harmonious balance of volumes and exquisite sculpted decorations. Its architectural design and meticulous craftsmanship highlight the skilled work of the artisans involved in its creation.
Recognized as a historical monument since 1846, the Saint Trophime Cloister has received significant acclaim. It has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Roman and Romanesque monuments of Arles since 1981. This prestigious status underscores its exceptional cultural value and its contribution to the architectural heritage of the region.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Arles. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Cloitre Saint-Trophime (St. Trophime Cloister) on Map
Sight Name: Cloitre Saint-Trophime (St. Trophime Cloister)
Sight Location: Arles, France (See walking tours in Arles)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Arles, France (See walking tours in Arles)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Arles, France
Create Your Own Walk in Arles
Creating your own self-guided walk in Arles is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Arles Introduction Walking Tour
In the heart of Provence, lies the picturesque town of Arles. Thanks to its relaxing southern-French atmosphere, Arles is a pleasant place to explore. Here, apart from the distinctive Provencal character and small-town charm, you will find a wealth of historical sites.
The Ligurians settled in the area around 800 BC. Later, the Phoenicians established here a trading port, before it was taken... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.3 Km or 0.8 Miles
The Ligurians settled in the area around 800 BC. Later, the Phoenicians established here a trading port, before it was taken... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.3 Km or 0.8 Miles
Vincent van Gogh Walking Tour
"There's no place quite like it for painters. It's so beautiful and peaceful..." These words, reportedly attributed to Vincent van Gogh, emphasize the beauty and exceptional qualities of Arles with which the renowned Dutch painter had a special connection.
Vincent van Gogh moved to this town in 1888, after having worked in Paris for two years. In the late 19th century,... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Vincent van Gogh moved to this town in 1888, after having worked in Paris for two years. In the late 19th century,... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles