About the Cathedral of Saint Peter (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre) in Vannes, France:
The cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of Vannes, located in Britttany. The present Gothic church was erected on the site of the former Romanesque cathedral and was consecrated in 1450 AD.
Its’ most notable feature is that of the Tomb of Saint Vincent Ferrer.
About Saint Vincent Ferrer (1350–1419)
A Spanish Dominican friar, missionary, and preacher, he is often referred to as the “Angel of the Apocalypse” due to his fervent sermons about the Last Judgment. Born in Valencia, Spain, he entered the Dominican Order at a young age and became renowned for his intellect, piety, and oratorical skills. He studied theology and philosophy, eventually earning the title of Master of Sacred Theology.
Vincent Ferrer lived during a tumultuous period in Church history, notably the Western Schism (1378–1417), when rival popes claimed legitimacy. He initially supported the Avignon papacy but later worked to heal the schism, advocating for unity under one pope. His efforts contributed to the resolution at the Council of Constance in 1417.
He traveled extensively across Europe—Spain, France, Italy, and beyond—preaching repentance, penance, and preparation for divine judgment. His sermons drew massive crowds, often numbering in the thousands, and he was credited with numerous conversions, including among Jews and Muslims. Vincent was known for his austere lifestyle, his devotion to the poor, and his reported ability to perform miracles, such as healings and raising the dead, which bolstered his reputation as a holy man.
His legacy endures through his writings, like the “Treatise on the Spiritual Life,” and his influence on Christian preaching.
Canonized in 1455 by Pope Callixtus III, Saint Vincent Ferrer is the patron saint of builders, plumbers, and fishermen, among others.
Saint Vincent Ferrer’s tomb is located here in the Cathedral. After his death on April 5, 1419, in Vannes—where he had been preaching during his final days—his body was buried in the cathedral. The tomb became a site of veneration due to his reputation for holiness and miracles.
We celebrate the feast day of Saint Vincent Ferrer on April 5,
About the Cathedral of Saint Peter (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre) in Vannes, France:
Dating from 1450, the cathedral is a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles.
The tomb of Saint Vincent Ferrer itself is an ornate Gothic structure, reflecting the reverence for him in the region. It’s situated in the cathedral’s choir area, and his relics remain there, drawing pilgrims and visitors., is a fitting resting place for a figure of his stature.
Traveling to the Cathedral of Saint Peter (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre) in Vannes, France:
Vannes is located in Brittany, in northwest France. Brittany is a hilly peninsula extending out toward the Atlantic Ocean.
There are 2 airports near Vannes: Lorient Airport and St. Nazaire Montoir Airport; and there is also train service from many parts of France. The TGV high-speed trains cover the 250 mile (400 km) trip from Paris in Vannes in slightly over two hours, so it can even be a day trip from Paris, although an overnight stay in the city can be an excellent experience.
Address: 22 Rue des Chanoines, 56000 Vannes, France
Phone: +33 2 97 47 10 88