Tucked away slightly out of the centre of St Omer, its cathedral is one of the most impressive…read moremediaeval monuments in the Pas-de-Calais region. Fortunately largely spared the ravages of the Two World Wars which devastated much of the area, it is an excellent example of the flamboyant style of gothic architecture of the 13th, 14th and early 15th centuries. The substantial, square tower (15th-16th century) is reminiscent of perpendicular gothic towers in England, such was the cross-over of architectural styles in the period. A 12th century octagonal tower also survives from an earlier building. Despite the length it took to construct, the overall effect is remarkably harmonious and uniform, in part because of the use of the distinctive local white limestone. The church is also well-known for its sculpture and furnishings. The highlight is the 'Descent from the Cross' by Rubens, but it also has a working astrological clock from 1558, some stained glass from the 15th century, the tomb effigy of Saint Omer himself (13th century) and interestingly, a statue of God from Therouanne, dated to around the 13th century: his strange proportions reflect the original intention to place it 60ft from the ground. Both south and west doors have interesting decorative sculptures, including a 13th century Doom on the south door. The church is currently undergoing restoration, following severe damage during a storm in January 2007, which brought down a substantial number of pinnacles from the tower. The interior is nevertheless open.