Saint-Léonce Cathedral majestically dominates the old town of Fréjus and stands out as one of the city's emblematic monuments. Listed as a Historic Monument since 1862, it thus bears witness to great historical importance. Indeed, its rich and complex history spans several centuries, mixing both traces of ancient origins and medieval influences. This highlights its evolution over time.

Fréjus Cathedral: a journey through the centuries, from the Roman basilica to today

The first cathedral, dedicated to the Virgin and to Saint-Léonce, bishop of Fréjus at the beginning of the 5th century, is said to have been built on the foundations of a Roman basilica. Thus, traces of this first structure can still be found in the large medieval nave, which is said to date from the 5th century.

Subsequently, from the 11th century onwards, the cathedral underwent several additions. In the 12th century, a smaller church, parallel to the first, was extended and transformed into a parish church, today known as the Saint-Étienne nave. In addition, a parish cemetery adjoined this church, marking one of the first establishments of this type in southern Gaul.

Saint-Léonce Cathedral between monumentality and defense

The evolution of the cathedral in the 13th century was particularly striking. Indeed, the architects completely rebuilt the Notre-Dame nave. In addition, a large bell tower was built to the west, while to the east, a cul-de-four apse was added. These transformations thus gave the building a character that was both monumental and defensive.

After the Second World War, the bell tower was restored. However, it retained elements from the 13th and 16th centuries. Its spire, covered with golden-hued glazed ceramics, now sparkles in the sun, offering a light show.

In 1530, the main entrance was remodeled. The old door was replaced by a portal decorated with superb carved wooden leaves. In addition, at that time, two bishops, Barthélemy and Pierre de Camelin, were buried in the cathedral. In addition, statues made by a Genoese workshop now accompany their tombs.

Inside, the architecture is a clever mix of influences and styles. 

The cathedral has a nave with a Lombard-style ribbed vault, of Italian origin. In addition, the apse houses carved walnut stalls, made in 1441 by Jean Flamenc. The Baroque high altar, attributed to Dominique Fossati, thus illustrates the splendor of the 1991th century. Furthermore, the organ, installed in XNUMX, is inspired by Italian models of the XNUMXth and XNUMXth centuries and brings a sound dimension that perfectly complements the architecture.

As for the sacristy, dating from the 12th century, it is distinguished by its Louis XV style walnut furniture. A carved slate lintel adorns the coat of arms of the provost Georges Fenilis. This artistic and historical wealth makes the cathedral a place where history, art and spirituality come together harmoniously.


The bell tower

of the cathedral

The bell tower of Fréjus: a majestic monument and the beating heart of the city

The bell tower of Fréjus Cathedral symbolizes the attachment of the people of Fréjus to their heritage and embodies the soul of the city.

Indeed, it is visible from several strategic points, such as the Base Nature, the Villa Aurélienne and Port Fréjus. Thus, it dominates the horizon and connects each district to the heart of Old Fréjus.

The history of the bell tower begins in the 12th century, with a bell tower-porch at the entrance to the nave. Later, in the 13th century, the current bell tower was built, which presents a majestic structure divided into three parts. Its conical roof, in yellow and green tones, sparkles in the light, creating an illusion of gold. In addition, the bell tower rests on an octagonal drum from the 16th century, supported by an older square base.

Inside the tower, four majestic bells ring regularly. The oldest, Saint Leontius, was donated in 1303 by the future Pope John XXII. After a recast in 1770, it continues to vibrate. In 1981, two bells dating from 1445 were classified, bearing an inscription for the Virgin Mary. Finally, the last bell, dating from 1766, is also precious.

The renovated bell tower: a sound that resonates with history and pride

After the Second World War, the tower was restored, while keeping its original structure intact. The renovation of the bells, for its part, required passion and precision. Thus, the largest bell, weighing a ton, was re-welded, and several parts were recast to improve the sound. Thanks to this meticulous work, the bells once again emit a ringing sound.

In addition, the bell tower is much more than just a vestige. It bears witness to the deep connection between the people of Fréjus and their history. Indeed, with each stroke of the bell, the soul of the city resonates, reminding the inhabitants of their roots and their pride.

Saint-Léonce Cathedral Frejus
Saint-Léonce Cathedral Frejus

The altarpiece of Sainte-Maguerite, by Jacques Durandi

The altarpiece of Saint Margaret is a fascinating work from the Middle Ages, combining international Gothic art and a rich religious legend. Thus, it embodies the beginnings of the Renaissance. Antoine Boneti commissioned this work from the Nice artist Jacques Durandi. This polyptych altarpiece, painted in tempera, measures 2,18 meters long and 2,23 meters high. It is particularly distinguished by a masterful composition, divided into registers where the characters grow as they climb.

In the center, Saint Margaret, protector of pregnant women and kidney patients, is depicted on a dragon. This symbol, in fact, shows her miraculous victory over evil. The story of this saint, martyred in the 4th century, tells that she was swallowed by a sea monster. However, she pierced it with a cross to escape unharmed, before being decapitated for her faith.

In addition, the altarpiece also highlights another important figure: Saint Mary Magdalene, the sinner who became a follower of Jesus. She is depicted here with a perfume vase, a symbol of her love and devotion to Christ. According to Provençal legend, after landing at Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, she evangelized the region. She then retired to the Sainte-Baume cave to end her days in prayer. Her tomb in Saint-Maximin remains one of the three most venerated in Christianity.

Thus, this altarpiece, beyond its beauty, invites the viewer to meditate on the faith and spiritual journey of these figures, embodying both suffering and redemption. Thanks to its precise iconography, it immerses the observer in a mystical and human universe where faith is expressed with majesty.

Ultimately, this masterpiece is a testament to the craftsmanship of the time and the way in which spirituality and devotion were expressed through art with rare intensity.

Saint-Léonce Cathedral Frejus

The Orgue

of the cathedral

The history of the Great Organ of the Cathedral of Fréjus spans several centuries. The current organ was completed between 1989 and 1991. Pascal Quorin and Jean-Louis Loriaut carried out this masterpiece. This project is part of a tradition of organs in Fréjus, mentioned as early as 1600. In 1778, an organ was installed and repaired in 1806. In 1810, the Marseille organ builders Bormé and Gazeau replaced this organ with a new model. Aristide Cavaillé-Coll modified the organ in 1856.

The 1857 organ, composed of 16 stops, two keyboards and a pedal board, has been restored several times. After the bombings of 1944 and a lightning strike in 1951, the organ suffered. In the 1960s, significant damage affected the instrument. In 1967, an organ from the Gonzalez house took the place of the old one. However, this organ became a cause for concern in the 1980s.

In the 1990s, a project for a new organ was launched. Pascal Quorin and Jean-Louis Loriaut created a modern baroque organ. The instrument combines the spirit of 1991th and XNUMXth century organs with contemporary requirements. Inaugurated in December XNUMX, the organ has a splendid Italian decor, with trompe-l'oeil sculptures and marquetry made from exotic woods.

Today, recitals take place throughout the year, allowing visitors to experience its sonic power.

Emmanuel Arakélian, organist since 2009 and artistic director of the Friends of the Cathedral, actively participates in the programming of concerts around the Grand Orgue. Born in Avignon, he graduated from the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique de Paris, where he studied organ, harpsichord, basso continuo and chamber music. He has worked with renowned masters such as Olivier Latry, Michel Bouvard and Blandine Rannou.

Winner of several international awards, Emmanuel Arakélian is a regular at prestigious festivals. He has established himself as a leader of his generation, recognized for his eclecticism and his mastery of the organ and harpsichord. Committed to passing on his knowledge, he has been teaching organ since 2019 at the Pierre Barbizet Conservatory in Marseille.

Firm. Opens at 09:00 p.m.
58, rue de Fleury
83600 Fréjus
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