About
Metz Cathedral, known as Saint-Étienne, stands in the centre of Metz, the city in north-eastern France. It is a Gothic church, and it is the building most visitors come to see first when they arrive in the city.
What to expect inside
The cathedral is best known for its stained glass. Its windows are among the largest of their kind in the world, and they include works by Marc Chagall. Because the building is so tall and so filled with glass, the interior is full of coloured light that changes as the day goes on. Many visitors spend more time looking up than they expect to.
- Large stained glass windows, including work by Marc Chagall
- Soaring Gothic architecture and a light, open interior
- A church that is still used for worship, so visitors should dress and behave with that in mind
Planning your visit
A visit suits anyone interested in religious architecture, medieval building, or modern art set into an old structure. It also works well as a quiet stop during a walk through the city. Allow time to move slowly through the nave and to look closely at the windows, since the details are easy to miss on a quick pass.
The cathedral is one of the most striking religious buildings in France, and it gives a strong reason to spend time in Metz itself. The city's old centre and its streets around the cathedral make a natural setting for the rest of your day.