Rieux-Volvestre : Ancient Sainte-Marie cathedral

Rieux was once the capital of the Volvestre region and the center of a royal court of justice. The church was devoted in 1222 and was raised to the rank of cathedral in 1318. The current structure shows several modifications over time. The oldest part is the 12th century choir. The nave, as well as the portal overlooking the central section, date from the 14th century (around 1330). The chapter choir, located on the north side of the nave, was built at the beginning of the 17th century. The sacristy dates back to the 15th century. The five -level octagonal bell tower, located next to the western gable of the nave, also dates from the 15th century. Around 1530, a door carved in the style of the first Renaissance was opened in the last chapel at the entrance to the bell tower. The bishops used this door to go from their episcopal palace to the cathedral.