The Gothic Cathedral in Lausanne was consecrated to Notre-Dame in 1275, in the presence of the Pope and the Emperor. Built on the very verge of the hill in the old town, it was an important destination for pilgrims for centuries. In 1536 it became a reformed spiritual place.

The sculpted south portal, with its stained-glass rosace, is a masterpiece of European Gothic art. The quality of the sculptures, particularly of a Christ in glory, is exceptional, additionally enhanced by the discovery of their original colours hidden and protected by a whitewash since the Reform. With very careful restoration, this portal could be stabilised and the colours of the sculptures, attacked by their exposure to air, maintained.

Since 1405 a watchman in the clock tower makes sure there is no fire and shouts out the hours from ten p.m. to 2 a.m.

The Cathedral organs were inaugurated in 2003 and are used for church services and concerts in a unique setting.