Dominik Gehl Photography - Cathédrale Saint-Pierre

The construction of the current Cathédrale Saint-Pierre in Geneva began in the mid-12th century, showcasing a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. The cathedral is primarily constructed from molasse sandstone, sourced from quarries around Lake Geneva. Originally founded as a Roman Catholic cathedral, it became a center of Protestant Reformation under John Calvin in the 16th century. This transformation led to the removal of many of its original Catholic decorations, aligning the interior with the austere principles of Calvinist worship. Its neoclassical portico, inspired by the Parthenon in Rome, was built between 1742 and 1755 according to plans by Benedetto Alfieri.

tower and spire

portico built between 1742 and 1755 to plans by Benedetto Alfieri

The two large rose windows of the south and north transepts date from 1835 and are the work of glassmaker Antoine Rodet.

ceiling and rose windows by Antoine Rodet

The cathedral has a length of 70 meters. Located above the main entrance, the new organ, built by organ builder Metzler in Zurich with the collaboration of Pal Andersen of Copenhagen for the organcase, was inaugurated in 1965. The wooden stalls date from the 15th century.

organ built in 1965 by Metzler in Zurich

15th century stalls

One of the most striking Gothic additions to the cathedral is the Chapelle des Macchabées, built between 1400 and 1405. It was restored at the end of the 19th century in a Neo-gothic style under the direction of municipal architect Louis Viollier. Its six windows are the works of the glass painter Friedrich Berbig and were installed in 1888. The vaults are decorated with frescoes by local painter Gustave Henri de Beaumont reproducing the original paintings depicting a celestial concert.

Chapelle des Macchabées with windows by Friedrich Berbig

chapel entrance

Walcker organ built in 1888

Chapelle des Macchabées

Built in the Middle Ages in the south tower, the watch room was used to warn the people of Geneva of fires and attacks. Unlike at Lausanne Cathedral, where the tradition of having a lookout still continues, Geneva discontinued its lookout in 1911.

Located at the highest point of Geneva's Old Town, the cathedral towers provide panoramic views over Geneva, Lake Geneva, and the surrounding mountains. The copper spire was built at the end of the 19th century and is 71 meters high.