When you travel to Bordeaux in southern France, a visit to the historic Church of the Holy Cross (known locally as Église Sainte-Croix) offers a compelling glimpse into medieval religious architecture and regional history. Originally established as part of a Benedictine abbey founded way back in the 7th century, the current Roman Catholic church structure was constructed between the late 11th and early 12th centuries. As you approach, you will immediately notice its striking Romanesque façade, a classic architectural style that defines the exterior.
Inside, you can wander through an expansive interior featuring a central nave that stretches 39 meters long, flanked by four distinct aisles. Be sure to look for the transept, which includes specialized apses on each of its arms, as well as the impressive polygonal apse rising to a height of 15.30 meters. Music and history enthusiasts will appreciate seeing the historic organ dating from the 18th century.
You can also observe the lasting touches of 19th-century renovation work carried out by architect Paul Abadie. Today, the surrounding complex seamlessly blends past and present, as the former Benedictine abbey now houses the local art school, the École des beaux-arts de Bordeaux.
What to see at Church of the Holy Cross
- Beautiful late 11th to early 12th-century Romanesque façade
- Spacious 39-meter-long nave flanked by four aisles
- Polygonal apse standing 15.30 meters high and transept with apses
- Historic organ dating back to the 18th century
- Adjacent former Benedictine abbey now housing the École des beaux-arts de Bordeaux
Visiting tips
Be sure to take time to examine both Paul Abadie's 19th-century renovations and the neighboring École des beaux-arts de Bordeaux located in the former abbey.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Church of the Holy Cross is easy to reach on Bordeaux’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Basilica of St. Michael, Bordeaux and Synagogue. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Bordeaux travel guide.
See the full Bordeaux travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.