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As a royal fief, Sens Cathedral was the setting for events which frequently intertwined the history of Sens with the history of France.
Commenced in about 1135 on the initiative of Archbishop Henri Sanglier, it is one of the earliest examples of Gothic architecture: rib vaults on the crossings and the first flying buttress. Finished in the 16th century and despite several architectural modifications, the building nevertheless gives the impression of an imposing unity of style.
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Complex, erudite decoration features on the north door and the central door in the western facade: the Seven Liberal Arts, philosophy, work in the fields over the twelve months of the year, animals and fabulous beings; on the central pier, the very fine statue of Saint Etienne, the Cathedral's patron saint.
The North Tower, known as the Tour de Plomb (Tower of Lead) (late 12th century) and the South Tower, or Tour de Pierre (Tower of Stone ), topped by a Renaissance bell tower, frame the facade. The transept doors (16th century) are richly decorated in the flamboyant style of the period.
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Magnificent stained-glass windows provide light throughout: scenes from the life of Thomas Becket, Parables (13th century), Tree of Jesse and rose windows (16th century).
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