Toulouse. Major works are beginning at the Saint-Sernin basilica, they will last several months
By Lucie Fraisse
Published on
It is one of the heritage jewels of Toulouse and for several months it will partly disappear under the scaffolding. A vast operation to renovate the exterior facades and roofs is in fact underway at the Basilica of Saint Sernin.
Impressive scaffolding
It is in fact the western massif – that is the part which faces the Saint Raymond Museum– which is targeted by this major restoration operation. The town hall of Toulouse is the owner of this project.
If you have recently walked around the basilica, you have undoubtedly seen the impressive scaffolding installed on the western part of the building. Their installation corresponds in fact to the preparation phase of the construction site, resumed during the summer. At the same time, the organs of the basilica were protected.
Roof completely redone
The actual construction is due to start in October. With in particular the cleaning and demossing of brick facings and the replacement of freestones.
The roof of the western massif will be completely redone, identically, and the framework restored. All joinery will also be renovated.
New canopy
A conservative restorer will take care of the western portal of the basilica, and will carry out the architectural and statuary restoration. The cornices, arches and sculptures of the upper part of the portal are also being renovated.
The western rose window of the basilica Saint-Sernin and its glass roof will be restored: the town hall of Toulouse is organizing a competition for the creation of a contemporary glass roof. Budget for this operation alone: 500,000 euros.
Total cost of the operation: 3 million euros
All of the work should last approximately fourteen months with delivery scheduled for the last quarter of 2023. Total cost of the operation: 3 million euros.
This imposing project follows the major developments carried out on Place Saint-Sernin, the work of which was completed at the end of 2019, after the removal of a 160-space car park and the construction of a large forecourt pedestrian accompanied by the planting of a hundred trees
The Basilica of Saint-Sernin, one of the most visited monuments in Toulouse, is the most important Catholic religious building in Toulouse and one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe. She is on the list of Unesco World Heritage.
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