October 24, 2018

On Oct. 24, 1260, 758 years ago today, Chartres Cathedral was consecrated in the city of Chartres, France, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) southwest of Paris. Chartres Cathedral, one of the most magnificent examples of Gothic architecture, is also known as the Cathedral of Notre Dame (Our Lady) because it is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Most of the present cathedral was built between 1194 and 1260. The cathedral is legally recognized as a Roman Catholic building.

Chartres Cathedral is a masterpiece of medieval Gothic architecture. The cathedral is particularly known for its stained glass windows and its two giant towers topped by steeples. Credit: © Shutterstock

Chartres Cathedral was designed like a typical Gothic cathedral. From a distance, the most striking features are two giant towers topped by steeples. The south tower was built from about 1140 to 1160. The spire of the north tower was begun in 1507. The main entrance to the cathedral is called the west facade. The west facade has three doorways, called the Royal Portal. They are decorated with many sculptures portraying figures from the Bible. Above the Royal Portal is a rose window (ornamental circular window). It contains beautiful examples of medieval stained glass. The interior of the cathedral is dominated by stone vaults (arched ceilings) 118 feet (36 meters) above the floor. Stained glass windows are set into the lower walls and into upper walls called clerestories.

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Chartres lies southwest of Paris in northern France. Credit: WORLD BOOK map

France’s King Louis IX, who was known for his piety and later canonized as Saint Louis, attended the cathedral’s consecration in 1260. Chartres was later the coronation site of Henry IV in 1594. Unlike many cathedrals in France, Chartres was not looted or badly damaged during the French Revolution (1789-1799). The cathedral also escaped damage during World War II (1939-1945), when the city of Chartres and much of the surrounding region were largely destroyed.

Chartres Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Such sites are places of unique cultural or natural importance, as designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.