History of Nantes Cathedral in Timeline

Nantes Cathedral, a Roman Catholic Gothic cathedral in Nantes, France, dedicated to St. Peter and St. Paul, stands on the site of a former Romanesque cathedral. Its construction, a lengthy process spanning 457 years, commenced in 1434 and concluded in 1891. The French Ministry of Culture designated it as a monument historique in 1862, recognizing its historical and architectural significance.

June 1944: Bombing of Nantes Cathedral

In June 1944, Nantes Cathedral was damaged by Allied bombing during World War II.

January 1972: Fire at Nantes Cathedral

On January 28, 1972, a large fire, thought to have been caused by a workman's blow torch, broke out on the roof of Nantes Cathedral. The fire was brought under control, but the timber frame suffered severe damage, prompting a full interior restoration.

July 2020: 2020 Fire at Nantes Cathedral

On July 18, 2020, a fire broke out in three areas of Nantes Cathedral: the grand orgue, a smaller organ near the altar, and another area to the right of the altar. Approximately 100 firefighters tackled the blaze, which was investigated as arson. Though significant, the damage was reported as less severe than that suffered by Notre-Dame in 2019.

August 2021: Murder of Olivier Maire

On August 9, 2021, Emmanuel Abayisenga, who had been previously arrested and charged with the 2020 Nantes Cathedral arson, allegedly murdered 60-year-old priest Olivier Maire. Abayisenga, who had been staying with Maire at the time, surrendered himself to the authorities. Maire was the provincial superior of the Company of Mary and had been housing Abayisenga.