Photo: gothic - the most famous gothic cathedrals. Gothic architecture

Many people took part in the construction of the cathedral: for example, in the 40s. In the 12th century, thousands of Norman pilgrims came to Chartres and for several months rolled in stone blocks in the walls of the cathedral, reaching two or three meters in length and one meter in height. The western façade is the only thing left of the previous building. Its creation dates back to 1170. The façade is adorned with three portals richly decorated with magnificent stone bas-reliefs, referring to XII century. From the north and from the south, on the facades of the building, one can see a huge round lace window, very characteristic of French Gothic, into the openings of which colored stained-glass windows are inserted in lead bindings. The transept windows are 13 meters in diameter. A similar window entered the history of art under the name "rose". It first appeared in Chartres Cathedral, allegedly commissioned by King Louis IX Saint and his wife Queen Blanca of Castile. On the stained-glass windows of the "rose" you can see the coats of arms of France and Castile, scenes from the earthly life of the Mother of God and scenes of the Last Judgment. The cathedral in Chartres is better illuminated than the Parisian one, thanks to the high windows of the nave, the openwork chapels of the vast five-nave choir and the light, bluish-lilac color of the stained-glass windows, it is distinguished by a cross-shaped space, restrained nobility of the interior, covered by four private vaults, organic structure. The "Royal Portal" (1145-1155) of Chartres Cathedral is a striking example of Gothic sculpture. The Cathedral of Chartres was also famous for its stained-glass windows, which occupied an area of ​​more than two and a half thousand square meters. square meters. In 1194, the cathedral in Chartres almost completely burned down, only the “royal portal” and the foundations of the towers were preserved. The building was later rebuilt. The construction of the cathedral was considered a righteous deed, for which believers would be forgiven their sins, and salvation would be provided in heaven.

The cathedral in Angers, belonging to the Gothic structures, has retained all the features of the western regions of France. The author of the project did not thicken the walls.
He sought to balance the distribution of gravity by increasing the vertical load. The vault of the temple is strongly convex. Its powerful ribs are one of the decorations of the building, since the flat band passing between the two rollers is covered with carvings; between them, as it were, a garland of flowers is stretched. The cathedral has preserved stained-glass windows dating from different periods.

The characteristic features of the early Gothic were embodied in the main cathedral of the capital of France - Notre Dame de Paris ( Notre Dame of Paris). The majestic Notre-Dame de Paris was founded in 11b3, but its construction continued for several centuries - until the 14th century. The Cathedral is a basilica one hundred and twenty-nine meters long, consisting of five longitudinal naves and one transverse - a transept .. This is a grandiose (length 130 m, height of vaults 32.5 At) a five-nave temple, divided in the middle of the length by a short transept and completed with a choir with a double bypass (1182), so that the whole plan fits into a rectangle. With six-part vaults and identical round pillars of the main arcade, topped with large capitals, the wall placed on them is still massive; it received large upper windows necessary to illuminate the nave of the Choir of the Cathedral, as well as the facade with its clear horizontal and vertical articulations, as if with difficulty cut into a dense wall with portals, a magnificent rose and monumental towers that seem to have grown out of the body of the structure - a perfect work of a completely established style.
Three entrance-portals lead to the temple, framed by arches extending into the depths; above them are niches with statues - the so-called "royal gallery", images of biblical kings and French kings, who were identified with the characters old testament. The center of the western facade is decorated with a rose window, and above the side portals, windows under lancet arches stretched upwards. On the towers of the cathedral there are sculptures of fantastic monsters - chimeras. Notre Dame de Paris combined features of the Romanesque and Gothic styles. The massive towers of the façade are characteristic of Romanesque architecture, while the cross vault supported by arches, the use of flying buttresses and buttresses, lancet arches and many windows are features characteristic of Gothic art. Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris responded to the increased political significance cities
as the capital of the state and completed the first stage in the development of the Gothic style.

The architecture of the Reims Cathedral (1211-1331), with the severity of tectonic construction, is characterized by emphasized verticalism, the elongation of all elements and figures, an abundance of sculpture and decorative details, which, like lush growth, make their way up, crossing horizontal articulations. Even the lancet frames of the portals are so elevated that another rose cuts through the central tympanum. The entire outline of the facade is lightened, noticeably tapering upwards. The main façade of Reims Cathedral differs significantly from the classical façade. The protruding portals, the deep-lying rose framed by a high lancet arch and the high second floor create a new type of Gothic façade: vertical lines decisively predominate in it. the very alternation of vertical and horizontal lines. This impression of monotony is enhanced by the similar design of the side aisles.

Conclusion

In the XIII-XV centuries. Gothic architecture spread to different countries of Europe, acquiring certain features, and gradually grew out of the Romanesque style, transforming it with almost imperceptible innovations. In the 13th century, the connection between the two kingdoms of Spain and France strengthened. French architects work in Spain. Traces of their activities can be traced in the cathedrals of Leon, Burgos and Toledo. Spanish architecture of the 13th century seems to be a branch of the French. Almost always hostile, but always close relations with England could not but affect the architecture of both kingdoms. For example, the French architect Guillaume of Sens built the Cathedral in Kentbury in 1175. Being closer than any other English temples to the French plan, the cathedral of Westminster Abbey has remained a monument of close relations between the kingdoms. Its choir is surrounded by a crown of chapels, the central nave is higher than was customary in
English temples. The influence of the English Gothic on the French, which fell on the 15th century, did not affect the main structure of the buildings, but mainly their "flaming decor" The remarkable Gothic architecture of the Czech Republic of the 14th century is also associated with
named after the French architect Mathieu of Arras, who began the construction of the Cathedral of St. Witt in Prague Castle.
Information has been preserved that in 1287 Etienne de Bonneil sailed with an assistant to Sweden to build a cathedral in Uppsala. H

Gothic, as an architectural style, is characteristic of a certain era throughout Western Europe, but the leading role in its creation, development and implementation belonged to France.

Gothic architecture is more than just amazing. It is timeless and often breathtaking. Needless to say, Gothic architecture was one of the most extreme expressions of humanity. The thing is, you never know when or where you will come across this unique style of architecture. From American churches to grandiose cathedrals and even some civic buildings, Gothic architecture is still loved by people today, but nothing compares to the classic Gothic architecture that we'll be illustrating in this article.

There are several various types but they are all wonderful. From French to English to Italian style, Gothic architecture is like no other. France was the birthplace of Gothic architecture, and if you look at the history of Gothic architecture, it's almost spiritual. That's why you often see 12th century cathedrals, and even modern churches built in the beautiful style of Gothic architecture. It is one of the most captivating architectural styles known today. The beauty lies in the extreme complexity of the designs and in every small detail of the finish. These works of art have stood the test of time.

These are just a few of the many wonderful designs of Gothic architecture that are available for public viewing. These structures are again simply indescribable. If you ever get a chance to see one of these marvelous works of art, then you can understand the true grandeur, the nostalgic history or the realism of the ghostly images that seem to wander through the indescribably beautiful halls of these stunning buildings. Nothing compares to what you will feel when standing in front of one of these wonderful buildings.

10. St. Stephen's Cathedral, Vienna

St. Stephen's Cathedral, which was built in 1147, stands on the ruins of two churches that used to be on this site. This is a perfect example of all that Gothic architecture has to offer. In fact, it is considered the metropolis of the great Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vienna, and also serves as the seat of the archbishop. It is the most important religious building in Austria.

St. Stephen's Cathedral has endured the test of time and witnessed many historical events. It is covered with a beautifully painted roof, which currently stands as one of the city's most unique and recognizable religious symbols. The exquisite fortress is distinctive feature Vienna skyline.

There's something about the structure of the building that many of us don't know about - the north tower was actually meant to be a mirror image of the south tower. The building was originally planned to be much more ambitious, but given that the Gothic era had passed, construction stopped in 1511 and a cap in the style of Renaissance architecture was added to the north tower. Now the inhabitants of Vienna call it "the top of the water tower."

Locals also refer to the entrance to the building as "Riesentor" or "giant's door". The bells that were once housed in the Heidentürme (south tower) were lost forever during World War II. However, there is a belfry on the north tower which is still functioning. The oldest parts of St Stephen's are its Roman towers and the giant's door.

9. Mir Castle


Mir Castle is a breathtaking example of 16th century Gothic architecture located in the Grodno region. It is one of the most important tourist attractions in Belarus. The famous Prince Ilyinich built it in the early 1500s. However, the construction of this 3-storey castle began as the construction of a gothic work of art. It was later finished by its second owner, Mikołaj Radzivilla, in the Renaissance style. The castle was once surrounded by a moat, and beautiful Italian gardens are laid out against its northern wall.

Mir Castle suffered significant damage during the Napoleonic Wars. Nikolai Svyatopolk-Mirsky bought it, and began restoring it before handing it over to his son for complete completion. Mirsky's son hired a well-known architect named Teodor Bursze to fulfill his father's wishes, and his family owned Mirsky Castle until 1939.

The castle once served as a ghetto for Jews after they were liquidated by Nazi forces. Subsequently, it became a housing stock, but today the Mir Castle is a National Heritage Site. It is a huge part of the local and national culture, and a phenomenal piece of Gothic architecture that can be admired by both locals as well as tourists.

8. Cathedral of Our Lady of Antwerp (Antwerp Cathedral)

Antwerp Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of Antwerp, is a Roman Catholic building in Antwerp, Belgium. The construction of this outstanding masterpiece of Gothic architecture began in 1352 and continued until 1521. Construction was stopped in 1521 and today remains unfinished.

The cathedral stands where, from the ninth to the twelfth century, there was a small chapel of Our Lady. Now it is the largest and most spectacular gothic architectural style church in the Netherlands.

Looking at this royal building, it is hard to imagine that in 1533 a fire destroyed it and this, in fact, was the reason that it was not finished. However, thanks to him amazing beauty, it became an archbishop's cathedral in 1559. From the early 1800s to the mid-1900s, it was empty again and was even damaged during several local wars.

The amazing structure has endured the test of time, war, fire, and its history has gained a happy ending when in the 19th century, thanks to the restoration, it was completely restored. In 1993 the restoration that had begun in 1965 was finally completed and this impressive masterpiece of Gothic architecture and work of art was reopened to the public.

7. Cologne Cathedral

What a majestic masterpiece of Gothic architecture! Its construction lasted from 1248 to 1473, then it stopped and resumed only in the 19th century. Like many of its statute buildings, Cologne Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church and is located in Cologne, Germany. It serves as the residence of the archbishop, beloved by the people, as well as the archdiocese. This monument is a beacon and a symbol of both German Catholicism and outstanding and memorable Gothic architecture. Cologne Cathedral is also on the World Heritage List and is Germany's most visited tourist attraction.

The Gothic architecture presented in this building is simply amazing. It is the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe with the second tallest sphere. This building also has the largest façade of any church in the world today. The width-to-height ratio of the kliros compared to other medieval churches puts it in first place in this category as well.

There are so many beautiful things to see in this indescribably beautiful building that in order to truly appreciate them, you have to see them with your own eyes.

Its design was based on that of the Amiens Cathedral. It repeats the design with a Latin cross and high Gothic vaults. In the cathedral you can see beautiful stained glass windows, a high altar, original fixtures and much more. It truly can be called a modern treasure.

6. Burgos Cathedral (Cathedral of Burgos)


This example of Gothic architecture of the 13th century again appears before us in all its glory. Burgos Cathedral is an immaculately built and finely detailed cathedral located in Spain and occupied by Catholics. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. This is a huge architectural masterpiece, the construction of which was started in 1221 and continued until 1567. The cathedral was built in the French Gothic style. Later in the 15th and 16th century, elements of the Renaissance architectural style were also introduced into its structure. It was included in the list of cathedrals considered to be World Heritage Sites of Cathedrals and Gothic Architecture at the end of 1984, thus becoming the only Spanish cathedral to have this status.

There are many things to admire in this historically rich and beautiful place. From the statues of the 12 Apostles to the Condestable Chapel and the entire work of art, there are many more than we can describe in this article. The cathedral is Gothic to the core and is filled with angels, knights and heraldry among other stunning beauties.

5. St Vitus Cathedral


This magnificent example of Gothic architecture is located in Prague. St. Vitus Cathedral is much more beautiful than words can describe. The cathedral was built in strictly Gothic style. He's just amazing. If you ever get a chance to look at it - be sure to do it. This opportunity is definitely given only once in a lifetime!

The cathedral is not only a wonderful example of Gothic architecture, the church itself is the most revered and important in the country. It is also the largest cathedral. It is located next to the Prague Castle and the tombs of the Holy Roman Emperors, in addition, the remains of Czech kings are buried there. The whole complex, of course, is in the possession of the state.

4. Westminster Abbey


Westminster Abbey is also known as the Collegiate Church of St Peter at Westminster. For the most part, the abbey is built in the Gothic style and is one of the most notable religious buildings in London.

According to legend, in the late 1000s, on the site where Westminster Abbey is now located, there was a church called Thorn Ey (Thorn Ey). The construction of Westminster Abbey, according to legend, was begun at the request of Henry III in 1245 to prepare the place of his burial. More than 15 royal weddings have been held at the abbey.

This amazing work of Gothic architecture has witnessed many historical events, wars, it has suffered its share of damage, and survived many days of glory. Now it is a constant reminder of the events of bygone days.

3. Chartres Cathedral

Chartres Cathedral is also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of Chartres. This is a Roman, medieval Catholic cathedral, which is located in France. Most of it was built between 1194 and 1250 and it has been remarkably well preserved. In the 13th century, minor changes were made to the design of this outstanding work of Gothic architecture, but in general it remained almost the same as it was originally. The Holy Shroud of the Virgin Mary is kept in Chartres Cathedral. It is believed that the shroud was on Mary at the time of the birth of Jesus. This building and the relic it houses are popular tourist attractions that attract many Christians.

2. Rheinstein Castle (Burg Rheinstein)


Rheinstein Castle is a majestic castle perched on a hillside in Germany. It is simply an unforgettable sight, and the style of Gothic architecture used in its construction cannot be compared with other buildings of the same time period.

It was built between 1316 and 1317, but by 1344 it began to fall into disrepair. However, in 1794 it was bought and restored by Prince Fredrick of Persia, who lived there until 1863.

1. Oudenaarde Town Hall


Finally we come to the description of the Town Hall of Oudenarde. This is a delightfully beautiful town hall in Oudenaarde, Belgium. The architect behind this masterpiece is Hendrik van Pede and it was built between 1526 and 1537. This building must be seen by all those people who love history and fine art or old buildings.

Two main architectural styles are associated with the Western European Middle Ages: Romanesque and Gothic. Moreover, Romanesque arose and became widespread about a century earlier. Despite the fact that buildings in the Romanesque style continued to be erected long after the rise of the Gothic, it can, however, be said that, in general, this style is inherent in the early stage of the development of feudal society, when the main form of people's existence was a rural settlement with a castle - a fortress that dominated above it, and the role of the city in public life was very insignificant. Travelers moved along the roads of Europe from castle to castle and felt safe only behind strong stone walls. Such a way of life, of course, had its influence on the aesthetic views of the people of the Middle Ages. Therefore, they even wanted to see churches like impregnable fortresses, with blank massive walls and narrow windows that resembled loopholes.

The second stage in the development of feudalism, which began around the end of the 11th - beginning of the 12th centuries, is associated with the new birth and intensive development of the European city as a center of trade and crafts. This development was naturally accompanied by many interesting cultural phenomena. One of these phenomena was the formation of a new architectural style, completely different, at least outwardly, from the previous one. A few centuries after its inception, this style was called Gothic.

The rise of Gothic architecture in France

It is often possible to meet with the statement that the first building that can be called Gothic was erected near Paris in the abbey of Saint-Denis, which, starting from the 10th century. and until the French Revolution served as the burial place of the French kings. At the turn of the XI and XII centuries. its rector, abbot Suger, decided to rebuild the abbey. Under the leadership of Suger, a building was erected that was strikingly different from the architectural structures of the Romanesque style. Instead of rounded arches, pointed, lancet ones appeared. The four towers characteristic of the Romanesque style, arranged in pairs, were replaced by two very large ones, which bounded the plane of the front facade on both sides. In general, the building seems to be elongated, impetuous and fragile compared to the squat Romanesque structures. Thanks to this building, Saint-Denis was known as the birthplace of the Gothic. True, one can try to refute this glory, since some elements of the new style appear simultaneously in many places. But, of course, the construction of the abbey of Saint-Denis contributed to the spread of Gothic, because it was a role model.

The architectural tastes of Abbot Sugery were liked by his contemporaries. Soon they begin to imitate in the construction of city cathedrals. In medieval Western Europe, the cathedral is the main building of the city, all the streets converge to it.

Gothic style cathedrals

At the cathedral are major events. The beauty and size of the cathedral testify to the significance of the city, the wealth of its inhabitants. They tried to calculate the dimensions so that, if necessary, the building could accommodate the entire adult population of the city. Sometimes they did even more than was necessary. There are cases when relatively small towns that already had cathedrals, which, in size, fully satisfied the real needs of the population, built new ones, much larger, in order to be more respected by their neighbors. But a large cathedral was a great luxury, not only because it took a lot of material and many people worked on its construction, but also because it took up a lot of space.

The famous Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris

In a cramped medieval walled city, this was a very significant circumstance. Gothic architecture, unlike Romanesque, made it possible to stretch the building to hitherto unheard of heights. So, the cathedral can be made grandiose in size, and at the same time it will occupy a relatively small area. The main features of the structure of the abbey of Saint - Denis repeated erected in the XII century. the famous Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, or Notre Dame Cathedral. The lancet arches are very similar, two high sheer towers on the sides of the facade, instead of the central dome there is a thin spire. But both of these monuments are still far from the real developed Gothic. They are only a transitional link between Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

Soon, builders will create tall, steep and light structures that are simply torn into the sky. It was said above that the area occupied by the Gothic cathedrals was relatively small. But this is only in comparison with the grandiose height of their slender towers. In absolute terms, the area of ​​temples designed to accommodate all urban population was by no means small. On the contrary, the Gothic structures of the vaults made it possible to significantly increase the spans. For example, the cathedral in Amiens occupies a plot of 7700 sq. m. But its vault rises to such a height that it seems narrow.

The towers of the main facade rise even higher.

With the development of Gothic, the lancet windows become larger, the gaps between them narrower. Finally, the side walls almost completely disappear. There is actually one frame, consisting of thin supports. The space between them is occupied by huge windows, which end with swift pointed arches.

Spatulate Romanesque buttresses replace the so-called flying buttresses - fragile semi-arches, which rest on a thin column on one side, and support the frame on the other. The flying buttresses surrounding the building give the impression of capricious stone lace, and they also made it possible to build towers of unprecedented height.

Since Gothic temples have almost no walls, but only a frame, there are no wall mosaics or frescoes inside them. they are replaced by stained-glass windows - pictures made up of multi-colored glass. Stained glass windows occupy the huge window openings of the temple. The sun shines through the glass and paints the interior in fantastic colors. The palette of stained glass masters was very rich; various shades of red and bright blue were favorites. Therefore, the overall gamut usually came out red-violet.

The massive wall in the Gothic cathedral was preserved only by the main facade. It usually contains a single stained glass window. In the Gothic buildings of France, this window round shape and has a poetic name rose. In Germany, the window on the front facade of the cathedral is more often lancet. Another feature of German Gothic is not two, as in France, but one or three towers on the facade.

Facades and portals of temples were usually decorated with sculptures of saints and kings or images of allegorical content. For example, the portal of the cathedral in Strasbourg is decorated with magnificent sculptures depicting two women. One of them - young, proud and at the same time cheerful - symbolizes the Christian church. The second, bending over blindfolded and holding a broken spear in her hands, is the Jewish synagogue. Similar figures can be seen in other cathedrals. Each of them is unique and reveals traditional images in its own way. Great importance also has a smaller sculpture. Gutters and other technical details often look like fantastic animals. At the end of the Middle Ages, a plastic ornament appeared, which, with its curves, resembles a flame. The building was covered with this ornament from top to bottom. This style has received the expressive name "flaming Gothic".

Gothic cathedrals were often built for a very long time, during the life of more than one generation. It happened that construction was interrupted for a long time as a result of wars or lack of money. But the architects, replacing each other, diligently adhered to the stylistic unity with their predecessors. So, the cathedral in Reims, in which, according to tradition, the solemn coronation of the French king took place, they built 100 years, the cathedrals in Cologne and Milan even longer.

Gothic style in the architecture of Germany, Italy and Spain

As already noted, the "most gothic" country is France. Germany is in second place. This style is found in Italy, but it has never been really popular here. True, it is in Italy that we can see one of the most remarkable examples of Gothic architecture - the grandiose Milan Cathedral.

In Spain, which had long been under the rule of Muslim Arabs and became the birthplace of a very special architectural style, Gothic buildings began to be erected only at the end of the Middle Ages. But even here there are examples of this style. Most famous example- a cathedral in Barcelona, ​​a city that was under the rule of Muslims for a very short time.

In England, this style also gained great popularity. Its model is the most iconic building in the country - Westminster Abbey in London. In times closer to us, English architects willingly turned to the Gothic heritage.

Gothic cathedrals are not religious buildings of the ancient Goths, but temples built in the Gothic style of architecture. This architectural style appeared in France in the 12th century, it replaced the Romanesque style.

Gothic architecture spread throughout Western Europe and continued to develop until the 16th century. With the advent of the Renaissance, Gothic began to lose its significance. Best of all, the Gothic style manifested itself in the architecture of cathedrals, temples and monasteries. Gothic is characterized by narrow and high towers, arches with pointed tops, columns, multicolored stained glass windows and a richly decorated facade. An integral part of Gothic art is sculpture. The gloomy figures of gargoyles and mythical creatures served as a particularly frequent decoration on the walls. The combination of stained-glass windows shimmering with all the colors of the rainbow, magnificent patterns and stone sculptures of figures create an inimitable ensemble.

Gothic covers various works of art: painting, fresco, stained glass, sculpture, book miniature and many others. But as already mentioned, it is the medieval cathedrals of Europe that fully demonstrate all the beauty and grandeur of the Gothic style. They will be discussed below.

10 gothic cathedrals photo.

St Stephen's Cathedral, located in the heart of Vienna, has survived many wars and is now a symbol of the freedom of the city. The Gothic cathedral stands on the ruins of two previous churches. Its construction was largely initiated in the 14th century by Duke Rudolph IV. And the most recognizable characteristic of the cathedral, the tiled roof with the national coat of arms and the coat of arms of the city of Vienna, was added only in 1952.

Hotels and hotels: St. Stephen's Cathedral

2. Burgos Cathedral. Burgos, Spain

Burgos Cathedral is a medieval cathedral in the city of the same name, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is famous for its huge size and unique gothic architecture. The construction of the cathedral began in 1221, and after a long break of almost two centuries, it was completed in 1567. In 1919 the cathedral became the burial place national hero Rodrigo Diaz de Vivara (El Cid Campeador) and his wife Jimena Diaz.

Nearest hotels: Burgos Cathedral

3. Reims Cathedral. Reims, France

Reims Cathedral is the place where numerous French monarchs were officially crowned. It was built on the site of the basilica, where once (about 496) Clovis I, one of the greatest politicians of his time, was baptized by Saint Remy. The construction of the cathedral was completed by the end of the 13th century.

Hotels near Reims Cathedral

The exceptionally large and elaborate Gothic cathedral in Milan's main square is one of the most famous buildings in Europe. This is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Construction began in 1386 under the patronage of Archbishop Antonio da Saluzzo (Antonio da Saluzzo) in a late Gothic style more typical than. It took five centuries before the building was completed.

Nearest hotels: Milan Cathedral

5. Seville Cathedral. Seville, Spain

Situated on the site of the majestic Almohada Mosque, the medieval cathedral was built to showcase the power and wealth of Seville after the long process of the Reconquista. When completed in the 16th century, it superseded Hagia Sophia as the largest in the world. The builders used some of the columns and elements of the former mosque. The most famous Giralda is a tower with rich patterns and ornaments, formerly a minaret, and transformed into a bell tower.

Hotels in Seville

6. York Minster York, England

One of the two largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe (along with Germany). York Cathedral rises above the horizon in the ancient city of the same name and includes all stages of Gothic architectural development in. The construction of the present building was begun around 1230 and completed in 1472. The cathedral is famous for its largest medieval stained-glass windows.

Hotels in York Minster

Notre Dame Cathedral (Notre Dame de Paris) is a beautiful Catholic cathedral in the fourth arrondissement. Construction, begun in 1163, was not completed until 1345. One of the most famous French Gothic cathedrals, Notre Dame de Paris is an excellent example of French Gothic architecture, sculpture and stained glass. During the French Revolution in 1790 most of sculptures and treasures was destroyed and looted. And yet, on December 2, 1804, Napoleon Bonaparte was crowned emperor here.

Hotels in Notre Dame Cathedral

Cologne Cathedral has been the most famous symbol of the city for many centuries. Its height is 157.4 meters. The famous cathedral stands on the site where a Roman temple was located back in the 4th century. Construction of the Gothic cathedral began in 1248 and continued intermittently for more than 600 years. The cathedral is dedicated to Saints Peter and Mary and is the main temple of the Cologne Archdiocese.

Nearest hotels: Cologne Cathedral

9. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Florence, Italy

Gothic-style construction began in 1296 and was completed in 1436. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is the symbol of the city and one of beautiful buildings Florence. Notable are the outer walls of the basilica, lined with beautiful marble panels of various shades: green, white, pink. And the huge brick dome is also impressive.

Hotels: Santa Maria del Fiore Paris . Its merit, besides being one of the finest examples of French High Gothic, is that it has been almost perfectly preserved. Most of the cathedral's original stained glass windows have remained intact, while the architecture has seen only minor changes since the early 13th century.

Hotels in Chartres Cathedral