After having glimpsed it in the distance, finally, here is the Saint-Maclou Cathedral. This young cathedral, Pontoise did not actually become a bishopric until 1966, is a very old church. To understand its architecture, you must bear in mind that its construction spans from the 12th to the 16th centuries. The first building, undoubtedly constructed from 1140 to 1160, is Roman and corresponds to the current chevet and the transept. At the end of the 15th century. the church was deeply modified. The nave was elongated, the main facade was rebuilt, and the bell tower was built in a beautiful, flamboyant gothic style.
The rose window that projects over the main gate is one of the most beautiful feats of strength. It is an authentic piece of stone lacework. Do not hesitate to look at the many details sculpted on the facade: animals, friars and gargoyle.
Lastly, in the 16th century, the church was enlarged again. This time, in new Renaissance style. The northern shoulder in particular was reconstructed in the new style. The small right gate with its Corinthian columns, its intablature and its corners, bear witness to a return to the antiquity, typical of the Renaissance.
The contrast between this gate and the other two of Gothic style is striking. Don't hesitate to walk around the church to understand how well she's arranged. The chancel and the small chapels that surround it, date back to the first period of construction. But their windows have been reworked in the same Gothic style as the facade.
