Built upon the façade is a Renaissance portal which of itself would be a disfigurement anywhere, but which here gives the final blow to a structure which is unappealing from every point.
The present-day prefecture was the former episcopal residence.
The bishopric, which to-day has jurisdiction over the Department of the Hautes-Pyrénées, is a suffragan of the mother-see of Auch.
VIII
CATHÉDRALE DE CONDOM
The history of Condom as an ecclesiastical see is very brief.
It was established only in 1317, on an ancient abbey foundation, whose inception is unknown.
For three centuries only was it endowed with diocesan dignity. Its last titulaire was Bishop Bossuet.
The fine Gothic church, which was so short-lived as a cathedral, is more worthy of admiration than many grander and more ancient.
It dates from the early sixteenth century, and shows all the distinct marks of its era; but it is a most interesting church nevertheless, and is possessed of a fine unworldly cloister, which as much as many another—more famous or more magnificent—must have been conducive to inspired meditation.
The portal rises to a considerable height of elegance, but the façade is otherwise austere.