Global warming, rising temperatures, exacerbated in cities due to dense construction and sealed soils, lead to sweltering summers with heightened mortality risks.

The most vulnerable are elderlies, particularly women, that are mostly poor, live alone, and reside in buildings of the 1950-1970’s that are problematic because of their poor insulation and inadequate sun protection.

The cathedral, gothic construction of the 13th century and built with high and massive sandstone walls, naturally stays cool in summer. Today, churches are largely empty, prompting discussions about potential new uses.