Basilique Saint-Sernin, Toulouse

A masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, Basilique Saint-Sernin has undergone significant renovations over the past 40 years to make it a worthy pilgrimage site on the route of St. James. One of its main attractions is a contemporary bust sculpture of John Paul II. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the basilica features a bell tower, 12th-century mural paintings, a crypt, a treasure trove, and the can’t-miss marble altar dating back to 1096 CE, when it was directly consecrated by Pope Urban II. If you're lucky, you'll hear a talented organist play the circa 1888 grand Cavaillé-Coll organ. Arrange to visit Basilique Saint-Sernin and other attractions in Toulouse using our Toulouse holiday planner.