The abbey quarter

Saint-Vaast abbey and the cathedral are the most important 18th century religious buildings in France. The abbey was founded in the 7th century and marks the birth of the medieval town (which developed independently of the Gallo-Roman town on the opposite hillside). The gigantic size of the current building gives a good idea of the economic and spiritual role it played in the artistic and cultural influence of the town through the ages. The neo-classical style cathedral is home to a few marvels (a series of eight sculptures of saints from the Pantheon, a tapestry from Aubusson and bishops’ tombs, etc) and a few art deco style surprises (a result of rebuilding in the 1920s). The abbey also contains the Fine Arts Museum and an ultra-modern media library (heir to the large Saint-Vaast library).

Cathedral
Entrance via the apse, rue Albert-1er-de-Belgique. Open to the public everyday.

• From 1st May to 15th October : from 10.30am to 5.30pm
• From 15th October to 30th April : from 2.30 to 5.30pm (closed on Sundays)

Guided tours : Saturdays at 3pm from mid-June to mid-September.
Full price : € 4,80

Media Library
The successful addition of modern architecture to a classical building is worth seeing. Entrance via the abbey courtyard, rue Paul-Doumer.
Contact : Media Library
20, rue Paul-Doumer, 62000 ARRAS
Tél. +33 (0)3 21 71 62 91

Fine Arts Museum
The museum occupies two thirds of the abbey. It is the best way to become immersed in the atmosphere of the site… while admiring some remarkable collections.