Autun - Cathédrale Saint-Lazare

There had been a church here earlier, that was just too small, when Autun became a centre of pilgrimage, after relics of St. Lazarus were kept here since about 970. Just like Vezelay, only 90kms north, where the relics of St. Lazarus´ sister St. Maria Magdalena were kept at that time. So in 1120, it was decided to construct this larger and more suitable cathedral. At that time this construction was influenced by Cluny III, that was a little older. After severe damage during the Hundred Years' War, rebuilding and remodelling the romanesque structure started. The central nave never changed - and the many carved capitals.

Some of these works were taken down, during the renovation by Viollet-le-Duc and are now shown in the "Salle Capitulaire", where it is interesting to see the carvings at eye level.

This carved capital depicts the Ark, being boarded by Noah´s extended family - and all the animals, that should be saved from the flood. Noah (seen in the top window) has placed the Ark on top of a wooded mountain, so there would be a little more time before the waves would carry the Ark away. Two animals look out of the central window. The Ark seems to be a woven or braided house- or basketlike boat. The carving is very symmetrical. The ark is very small, same like the mountain, but as symbols, they are clearly recognisable.