Notre-Dame Cathedral of Sées

The Notre-Dame Cathedral of Sées stands as one of Normandy's finest Gothic cathedrals, constructed between 1220 and 1310. The nave represents pure Norman Gothic architecture from the 1220s-1240s, while the choir and transept showcase later Rayonnant Gothic influences from the Île-de-France region. Two openwork spires rise 70 meters above the town, creating a distinctive silhouette visible across the Orne countryside. The cathedral holds a remarkable collection of 13th-century banded stained glass windows in its radiating choir chapels, among the oldest surviving examples of this type in France. The famous 'grisailles de Sées' decorative windows filter light throughout the interior. A Cavaillé-Coll organ from the 19th century, housed in a 1743 case, provides music for services and concerts. The building serves as seat of the Diocese of Sées and holds the rank of Minor Basilica since 1871. Entry is free, though guided tours can be arranged through the local tourist office. During summer months, the cathedral hosts sacred music concerts and the 'Musilumières' sound and light show on weekend evenings.