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ExploreSaint John's Cathedral
The cathedral was built from 1180 to 1480 and is 79m long, 26m wide and 32m high (main arch). Its frontage dates from the start of the 14th c. The large rose window from 1392 by Jacques de Beaujeu has a diameter of 8m.
About
The astronomical clock, built in 1598 by Nicolas Lippius, strikes at noon, 2 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m.
The organ, bought in 1842 by cardinal de Bonald, consisted of 15 pipes and was situated at the back of the chancel. In 1936, it was extended to 50 pipes and placed in the south transept (national edifice).
The bell, cast in 1622, is one of the largest known to date, between 8 and 9 tonnes and 2.19 m wide. Named Anne-Marie de la Primatiale, this bell is only rung for solemn occasions (10 to 15 times a year, including on 8th September for the aldermen's vows).
Key dates for the cathedral:
1245: 1st Council of Lyon with Innocent IV
1271: the body of Saint-Louis who died in Tunis was placed here
1316: crowning of Pope John XXII
1562: damage by Calvinist troops
1600: marriage of Henry IV to Marie de Médicis
1805: Napoleon I and Joséphine were received by cardinal Fesch, the emperor's uncle.
The "ZeVisit" application offers an audio guide in 7 indoor or outdoor stages, downloadable on www.stjean.net
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