Highlight • Religious Site
Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité
Cycling
4.2
(15)
The Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité is a significant neoclassical church located in the historic city of Arras, within the Pas-de-Calais department of the Hauts-de-France region in northern France. Standing at an elevation of approximately 117 meters on the ancient Baudimont Hill, this religious building and historical site occupies the former grounds of the grand Arras Cathedral, offering a deep connection to the city's past. Its prominent location near the prefecture building makes it a central landmark for visitors exploring Arras.
Visitors are…
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August 16, 2024
Cycling
•July 11, 2022
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4.9
(16)
78
riders
94.6km
05:36
440m
440m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(20)
101
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22.9km
01:22
70m
70m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
54
riders
63.2km
04:30
530m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
Details
Informations
Elevation 120 m
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Tuesday 17 March
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Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical opening hours for Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité?
While the church is generally open to the public, specific opening hours can vary. It's always a good idea to check local listings or the church's official website before your visit, especially if you plan to explore the interior.
Are there any easy walking trails suitable for families near Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité?
Yes, the area around Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité is quite suitable for family-friendly walks. You can enjoy gentle strolls through the historic city center of Arras, exploring its charming streets and other landmarks. The nearby park also offers benches and a pleasant environment for a relaxed outing.
Is Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité accessible for visitors using wheelchairs or strollers?
The church is located in the city center of Arras, which generally has paved streets and sidewalks. While the immediate exterior and surrounding areas should be manageable, access within the church itself may vary depending on the presence of steps or other architectural features. It's advisable to contact the church directly for specific accessibility information regarding the interior.
What are the parking options for visitors looking to walk around Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité and the surrounding area?
Parking for walks near Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité can often be found in the surrounding city streets or designated public parking areas within Arras. As it's a central location, street parking might be limited, especially during peak times. Look for public car parks nearby for more reliable options.
What is the historical significance of the location where Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité stands?
The church stands on a site steeped in history, specifically on the ancient Baudimont Hill. It occupies the former location of the Arras Cathedral of Notre-Dame-en-Cité, a grand Gothic cathedral that was largely destroyed during the French Revolution. Excavations for the current church even uncovered foundations and tombs of bishops from the ancient cathedral, linking it deeply to Arras's past.
Are there any cafes or restaurants conveniently located near Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité for a post-walk refreshment?
Absolutely! Given its central location in Arras, there are numerous cafes, bakeries, and restaurants within easy walking distance of Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité. You'll find plenty of options to enjoy a coffee, a snack, or a meal after exploring the church and its surroundings.
What are some notable architectural features or artworks to look for inside Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité?
Inside, visitors should note the church's neoclassical basilica plan with a wide nave and semicircular choir. The stained-glass windows are particularly noteworthy, depicting religious scenes and local historical events like the miracle of the "Ardents." Also, look for the magnificent organ by the J. Abbey manufacturer and the interior capitals created by Arras sculptor Jean-Baptiste Robert.
Can I bring my dog on walks in the vicinity of Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité?
While dogs are generally not permitted inside religious buildings like Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité, you can certainly enjoy walks with your dog in the surrounding public areas and parks of Arras. Always keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of local regulations regarding pets in public spaces.
How long does it typically take to visit Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité and its immediate surroundings?
A visit to Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité itself, including time to appreciate its architecture, stained glass, and historical context, might take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. If you plan to combine it with a leisurely walk through the historic center of Arras, exploring nearby streets and perhaps stopping at a cafe, you could easily spend 2-3 hours or more in the area.
What makes the stained-glass windows of Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité unique?
The stained-glass windows are a significant feature. The originals were destroyed during World War I, but new ones were commissioned from master glazier Pierre Turpin, based on drawings by Charles Hollart. These twelve windows are unique for depicting not only religious scenes but also local historical events, such as the baptism of Clovis and the legend of the "Mal des Ardents," offering a visual narrative of Arras's heritage.
Are there any viewpoints near Église Saint-Nicolas-en-Cité that offer scenic views of Arras?
The church itself is situated on Baudimont Hill, offering a slightly elevated position within Arras. While it doesn't provide panoramic vistas from its immediate vicinity, exploring the historic streets around the church can lead to charming perspectives of the city's architecture. For broader views, you might consider other elevated points or public squares within Arras.