The largest Gothic cathedral in Europe. Gothic style in architecture

In the Middle Ages, there was no city in Europe without a Catholic cathedral. The Latin term civitas, which translates as city, settlement, in those days meant the seat of the bishop. The episcopal residence was the cathedral. The construction of Gothic cathedrals is an important milestone in the history of medieval Europe. Not all cathedrals are huge and majestic, but all the majestic Gothic cathedrals, from the 12th century onwards, are citadels of art, science and technology, social life, faith and power. Gothic cathedrals are the quintessence of European civilization. Many of the cathedrals that have come down to us were built not only and not so much as religious buildings, an example of this is the Basilica of Saint-Denis.

During the decline of Antiquity, the Roman Empire was Christianized, each large and medium-sized city became the residence of a bishop - a diocese. Throughout the entire Middle Ages, more and more new dioceses were created, the evangelization of the northern, central and of Eastern Europe. In the XIII century, Western Europe has about a thousand dioceses and the same number of Catholic cathedrals. In the 12th century, urban and military construction flourished, buildings were grouped around Gothic cathedrals, some of which are 1000 years old.

Gothic cathedrals were different from what we know them today. Usually these were temple complexes consisting of separate buildings, some of which served for magnificent festivities, others for the liturgies of the clergy from the bishop's entourage. It was and special room for baptism. In the second half of the XI century. Pope Gregory VII carried out a large-scale church reform, called "Gregorian". The reform was aimed at strengthening the role of the church in the life of society. The cathedral was now presented as a place where the laity, priests, bishop - under the leadership of the chapter could gather together and perform religious rites. The cathedral was thus opposed to other church institutions, such as abbeys, and was able to take its proper place in the life of medieval society.

In the XIII century. Europe's economic recovery begins. The increasing material well-being of cities and provinces makes it possible to allocate significant funds for construction. Impressive cathedrals are erected. The Bishop of Chartres Fulber (c. 960-1028) foresaw the rise of the cathedral age and began building his residence as early as 1020. Fulber was an outstanding personality. He recognized early on the role he could play Catholic Church in feudal society, he owns fundamental works on vassal and seigneurial law, he himself participated in the reconciliation of the king of France with the rebellious nobility. In Germany and Italy, majestic cathedrals are being built according to the Roman model - Mayen, Worms, Modena, Ancon. However, Gothic takes its toll. The buildings of the cult are increasingly acquiring Gothic features, cathedrals built according to the Roman model are left unfinished, or destroyed and new ones are built in their place.

The founder, who developed the methodology of the Gothic style, is considered to be Abbot Suzher (c. 1080-1151). In 1144, under his supervision, the restoration of the eastern wall of the Abbey of Saint-Denis, as well as the choirs inside, was completed. Suger, adviser to Louis VI and Louis VII, conceived in architecture to show the greatness of the patron saint of Paris. For this purpose, crossing lancet arches were erected inside the cathedral, the upper triangular part of which concentrated light, symbolizing the maxim "God is light." The bishops welcomed the new canon with joy. Following Saint-Denis, according to the new rules, the cathedral in Sens (1150) was erected - the first of the known Gothic cathedrals. Then the cathedrals in Noyon, Laon, and in 1163 in Paris. This first wave of Gothic cathedrals is characterized by massive masonry, the presence of a gallery of choirs, and six-pointed arches. External retaining arches began to be used to distribute the gravity of the entire structure, as well as to make window openings wider. In 1194, the Burg Cathedral, a masterpiece of early Gothic, was completed.

With the beginning of the construction of Chartres Cathedral, Gothic art takes on its classical forms: quadrangular arches, triforium replaces the balconies of the choirs, external supports are built on a perfect system of buttresses. In 1211, the construction of the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Reims began, which resulted in a monumental building that has no analogues, 138 m long and 38 m high. The cathedral in Amiens remains the largest in terms of area - 8000 m2, built in 1220. The term "dazzling Gothic" perfectly reflects the principle of building cathedrals, consisting almost only of windows. Saint-Étienne alone in Metz has 6,500 m2 of stained glass windows. Beauvais is considered the highest Gothic cathedral, the lancet arches of the choirs reach 48 m, but in 1284 part of the arched ensemble collapses. These were not construction errors. By the end of the XIII century. the economic recovery is replaced by a recession, Europe is hit by a crisis, funds for the maintenance of cathedrals have become scarce. The fourteenth century is notorious for numerous wars and plagues, which slowed down the construction of cathedrals. The construction of many of them remained unfinished.

And yet, cathedrals are slowly but surely appearing all over Europe. In England, in the 12th century, Durham Cathedral, famous for its lancet arches, was built. The Plantagenet dynasty is no stranger to French architects, such as Guillaume de Sans, who designed Canterbury Cathedral in 1180. Nevertheless, English Gothic cathedrals retain their national identity - considerable in length, they remain squat compared to their French neighbors. In Spain, Gothic reflects the assertion of the Christian Reconquista: cathedrals were built in León (1205) and Burgos (1221). In Germany, the Gothic flourishes: the opus francigenum will replace the Roman canon everywhere. German rulers are ambitious, the size of cathedrals must shock and awe the laity, which is why the Cologne Cathedral, begun in 1248, was completed only in the 19th century. Italy long time remains faithful to the Roman canon. The peculiarity of Italian Gothic is the rich decoration of the walls, the multicolored finishing stone, as in Sienna, and the preservation of mosaic ornaments, as in Orvieto. The exception is the Milan Cathedral, built much later, in 1375, most likely it was built by architects and masons from Germany, which resulted in following classical Gothic principles, although the external marble decoration of the walls still shifts the emphasis towards Italian originality.

Gothic cathedrals radically change the face of cities. Often bishops seek the right of the authorities to demolish buildings around dioceses in order to increase their territory. In Bourg, in this way, an apse was added to the cathedral, in Narbonne the authorities refused to satisfy the request of the bishop, and there the cathedral was left without a nave. Another difficulty was the allocation of space inside for the porch. For example, in Amiens, the cathedral towers of the cathedral are rectangular, and not square, as originally intended, due to the fact that the chapter could not acquire the necessary plots of land.

The construction of Gothic cathedrals contributed to the development of construction technology and the improvement labor relations(and here you can learn about modern construction equipment wacker). Indeed, to build such a significant building, the coordinated work of the developer (often the bishop) and the contractor was required. The latter was called the master, his figure was the key to the successful completion of construction. The most famous contractors were, among others, Robert de Luzarches (c. 1160-1222), who during the construction of Amiens Cathedral severely limited the amount of stone for the construction of walls, thus reducing construction costs, and giving the cathedral more "airiness". Maitre Pierre de Montreuil of Paris (c. 1200-1267) earned an honorary epitaph on his grave: "Professor of Stones". He well coordinated his workers from the brigade and rationalized the work itself, starting from the quarry where the stones were mined. Hewing blocks for the cathedral began almost immediately after their extraction, the whole team worked: masons, sculptors, carpenters.

Since hired people worked on the construction, they were entitled to a salary, often very decent, so they were interested in maintaining labor skills and became professional workers, who were then hired on other construction sites. Bishops and chapters, if funds allowed, paid the contractor out of their own pockets. Of course, donations made by the laity were also attracted for funding, however, their irregularity did not allow them to be considered as a means for long-term investment. To manage the resource funds for the construction of cathedrals in France, the institute of chapters "Forces and Production" (Oeuvre et fabrique) was introduced.

Gothic cathedrals played a significant role in the life of medieval cities. First, they were places of worship. Of course, the cathedral belonged to the bishop, who held services on large religious holidays. AT common days services were held by numerous canons (83 people in Laon), daily masses were obligatory. The chaplains held services on the altars. More than 250 clerics served in Notre Dame Cathedral, the bishop was even forced to limit the number of masses served simultaneously to five. Secondly, the cathedral is inextricably linked with the institution of power in medieval society. In France, the king is an honorary canon of many cathedrals. The authorities quickly realized the importance of episcopal influence. In 1302, Philip the Handsome united the three monastic orders under the leadership of Notre Dame Cathedral, thus laying the foundation for the Estates General. For this, an equestrian statue was erected in his honor at Notre Dame. Many cathedrals also serve as royal tombs, such as in Rouen, where Richard the Lionheart rests.

Sketch of the equestrian statue of Philip the Handsome in Notre Dame, from the book. R. Gane Le Chapitre de Notre-Dame de Paris au XIVe siècle: étude sociale d "un groupe canonial.

In Italy, conflicts between the inhabitants of the surrounding villages and the bishops are not uncommon. The latter sought to seize not only ecclesiastical, but also secular power. In Sienna, the inhabitants managed to nationalize the construction of the cathedral and thus the construction passed to the city government. Craftsmen and workers are organized into partnerships and corporations, whose councils meet in chapels. Thanks to donations and membership fees, cathedrals are richly decorated.

The cathedrals are also the keepers of Christian relics, some become places of pilgrimage, like Saint-Jacques de Compostel. Bishops pronounce solemn speeches before the pilgrims, and also administer judgment on matters of faith. The mundane and the religious are closely intertwined in the life of Gothic cathedrals. Here the sins of the repentant are forgiven, but they also cut off the path, because it is closer to get to the market through the cathedral. But above all, a Gothic cathedral is a place of liturgy, religious mystery and prayer. Despite the impressiveness of the building, the interior space is clearly divided into zones. The main altar is located in the sanctuary and is hidden from prying eyes behind the altar curtain. In the foreground there are always choirs, isolated from the nave by means of the pulpit, and from the gallery surrounding the choirs - by a special barrier. The gallery, enclosed by a cast iron grate, is always open to the faithful so that they can honor the relics. The nave is the place of the laity. Guillaume Durand, Bishop of Mende (1230-1296), explains the purpose of cathedrals in his Rational. The Cathedral is "God's abode" and "gates of heaven", it anticipates the New Jerusalem and serves as a great reminder to all Christians of the coming kingdom of God.

The Catholic religion is known for its rich iconography. Sculptures in the cathedrals are located on the fence of the choirs and on the pulpit, as well as outside above the gates. The cathedrals of Chartres, Amiens, Bourg and Paris are famous for their sculptural compositions containing scenes from the Old and New Testaments, figures of Christ and the Virgin Mary. The whole façade is essentially turned into a kind of frontispiece, on which the figures of saints are located. In the cathedrals of Paris and Reims, a succession of kings imprinted in stone is also remarkable. Stained glass also seeks to contribute to the depiction of biblical scenes. More and more their color becomes warm yellow tint, in harmony with the plaster, which was plastered over the walls. Sometimes the stained-glass windows depict ongoing action, as, for example, on the lower windows in the apse in the Burg Cathedral. The windows are decorated with round stained-glass windows, the most famous of which, on the south transept of Notre Dame in Paris, is 13.5 meters in diameter. The stained glass windows mainly depict Christ and the Mother of God, as well as scenes from the Apocalypse. Sometimes, however, stained glass windows are purely practical in nature, representing the cycle of the zodiac or the change of seasons, as, for example, in the Cathedral of Angers, as well as everyday work or free art in general, as in Laon.

European cathedrals are magnificent monuments of sacred architecture, unique in their kind, markedly different from non-religious buildings. They have different architectural styles, locations and different ages thanks to the continued existence of the Christian religion. In this article we want to show you the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe!

10. Santa Maria del Fiore (Italy)

Santa Maria de Fiore is located in the Italian city of Florence. This is one of the most important architectural works in Europe, as well as one of the largest and most beautiful cathedrals on the European continent. It has an impressive exterior covered in polychrome marble. Its construction was begun by order of the Signoria in 1296, under the direction of the architect Arnolfo di Cambio, and completed in 1368.

9. St. Peter's Basilica (Italy)

This most important religious temple of Catholicism and one of the most beautiful in Europe is located in the Vatican. Its construction, with the participation of such architects as Bramante, Michelangelo and Carlo Maderno, began in 1506 and ended in 1626. Inside is the tomb of not only the first pope - St. Peter, but also all other popes. The dome of St. Peter's Basilica is one of the largest in the world and has served as inspiration for the domes of many other churches.

8. Siena Cathedral (Italy)

The Gothic temple of the city of Siena in Italy was designed by the architect Giovanni Pisano and built between 1215 and 1263. Externally and internally, the temple is decorated with white and green marble, forming characteristic stripes. Black and white are the symbolic colors of Siena. Inside, among others, you can see the works of Niccolo Pisano and his son Giovanni, Donatello and Michelangelo.

7. Chartres Cathedral (France)

This beautiful temple is located 80 km from Paris, in the city of Chartres. Chartres Cathedral was a milestone in the development of the Gothic. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, it is undoubtedly one of the most influential and beautiful cathedrals in Europe. He was the inspiration for many later buildings such as the Cathedral of Reims and Amiens.

6. Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela (Spain)

The majestic Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is the central building of the beautiful Praza do Obradoiro, considered one of the most beautiful squares in Spain. It was built between 1075 and 1211 to house the relics of Saint James. This beautiful cathedral is an object world heritage, a mixture of Gothic, Baroque and Romanesque styles, and for many it is not only one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Spain, but also in Europe.

5. Leon Cathedral (Spain)

The current Cathedral of León, built in the thirteenth century, is an ornate design in classic French Gothic style. It is known for having the largest collection of medieval stained glass in the world. These stained glass windows are constantly being restored, offering visitors a beautiful and unique spectacle.

4. Notre Dame (France)

The Gothic temple of Notre Dame was built between 1163 and 1245, being one of the most important monuments of Paris. It hosted such major events as the coronation of Napoleon, Henry VI and the beatification of Joan of Arc. One of the emblems of this beautiful temple is the formidable gargoyles at the top, which can be visited if you dare to climb the 387 steps to the tower.

3. Cologne Cathedral (Germany)

This beautiful cathedral is located in the heart of Cologne. This is a Gothic church, the construction of which began in 1248, and was completed only a few centuries later - in 1880. In 1996, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is the most visited attraction in Germany. Cologne Cathedral, at 157 meters tall, was the tallest building in the world until the Washington Monument in 1884.

The Gothic Milan Cathedral is undoubtedly considered one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe. Since its inception, it has become a symbol of the city. With its 157 meters in length and capacity for up to 40,000 people, it is also one of the largest temples among European countries. Inside the temple one can admire many altars, statues, paintings and altars.

1. St. Basil's Cathedral (Russia)

One of the most representative and delightful pearls of Russian history and architecture, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow was solemnly consecrated on July 12, 1561. Its construction was initiated by Tsar Ivan the Terrible and lasted between 1555 and 1561. The temple consists of 9 churches. The highest tower stands in the center and measures 47.5 m high. The original concept of the cathedral was to create a group of chapels, each of which is dedicated to the saints on whose day the king won the battle. But the construction of the central tower united the gaps between them into one structure that can rightfully be called the most beautiful cathedral in Europe!

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 began in the 14th century. And the most recognizable characteristic of the cathedral - tile roof depicting the national coat of arms and the coat of arms of the city of Vienna, was added only in 1952.

2. Burgos Cathedral. Burgos, Spain.

Burgos Cathedral is a medieval cathedral in the city of the same name, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. He is famous for his 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 of the Spanish national hero Rodrigo Diaz de Vivara (El Cid Campeador) and his wife Jimena Diaz.

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.

4. Milan Cathedral. Milan, Italy.

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.

6. York Minster York, England.

One of the two largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe(along with the Cologne Cathedral in Germany). York Minster rises above the skyline in the eponymous ancient city and includes all stages of Gothic architectural development in England. 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.

7. Notre Dame Cathedral. Paris, France.

Notre Dame de Paris is a beautiful Catholic cathedral in the fourth arrondissement of Paris. Construction, begun in 1163, was completed only in 1345. During the French Revolution in 1790, most of the sculptures and treasures were destroyed and looted. It was here that Napoleon Bonaparte was crowned emperor on December 2, 1804.

8. Cologne Cathedral. Cologne, Germany.

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.

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

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

10. Chartres Cathedral. Chartres, France.

Chartres Cathedral is located in the city of the same name near 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.

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 grand cathedrals and even some civil buildings Gothic architecture is still loved by people today, but nothing compares to classic Gothic architecture, which we will show examples of in this article.

There are several various types but they are all wonderful. From French to English and Italian style, Gothic architecture is incomparable to any 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 these amazing 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 a distinctive feature of the Vienna skyline.

There's something about the structure of the building that many of us don't know about - the north tower was actually supposed 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 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, he became housing stock Well, 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 both locals and tourists can admire.

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. It's 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 is amazing work Gothic architecture has witnessed many historical events, wars, it has suffered its fair share of damage, and experienced 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 is a must see for all those people who love history and fine art or old buildings.

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 Rudolf 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 of the national hero Rodrigo Diaz de Vivara (El Cid Campeador) and his wife Jimena Diaz.

Nearest hotels: Burgos Cathedral

3. Reims Cathedral. Reims, France

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

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 the sculptures and treasures were destroyed and looted. And yet, on December 2, 1804, Napoleon Bonaparte was crowned emperor here.

Hotels in Notre Dame Cathedral

Nearest hotels: Cologne Cathedral

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

The Gothic-style construction that began in 1296 was completed in 1436. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is the symbol of the city and one of the most beautiful buildings in 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

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