Chartres Cathedral – Chartres : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Chartres Cathedral is a magnificent Gothic masterpiece and a must-see attraction while travelling through France. Located in the town of Chartres just over an hour south of Paris, the cathedral holds a special place in the hearts of many. Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, it is a significant example of religious architecture as well as art, and for many, a pilgrimage site. Those who find themselves in the region should take the time to learn all there is to know about this impressive structure, from its long history and intriguing architecture to the interesting facts and travel guide surrounding it.

Interesting Facts About Chartres Cathedral – Chartres

Cathedral has the most extensive surviving collection of medieval stained glass in the world
-The glass is set in ancient stone walls from the XIII century
-The cathedral was constructed over the ruins of an earlier church built in the 4th century
-The labyrinth inside Chartres Cathedral has its roots in the mysterious druidic faith of the Celtic tribes
-The crypt beneath the cathedral is believed to be the final resting place of several of the French kings
-Construction of the cathedral was completed in 1260 after over 280 years of work
-The spire of Chartres Cathedral was nicknamed ‘The Letter Needle’ by locals because its shape is similar to a giant quill
-The unusually large rose windows of the cathedral are 27 feet in diameter
-The south transept of the cathedral also houses the ‘Blue Virgin’ which is a large tapestry depicting the Virgin Mary
-The cathedral is also home to a number of other artwork and sculptures, including the ‘Well of Moses’ made of sculpture, vines and painted tiles
-The cathedral contains what is believed to be a fragment of the one of the holiest relics, the tunic of the Virgin Mary

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History & Information About Chartres Cathedral – Chartres

Cathedral (official name Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres) is a Roman Catholic church located in the city of Chartres, France, about 80 km southwest of Paris. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.

Built in the Gothic style between 1194 and 1250, Chartres Cathedral is one of the most important churches in France and Europe. It is particularly renowned for its three massive stained glass windows, the Notre Dame de la Belle Verriere window, the Notre Dame de la Belle Verriere window from the mid-13th century; the The Tower of the Choir window from the mid-14th century; and the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple window from the mid-15th century.

The cathedral is also known for its numerous exquisite sculptures, like the Royal Portal, which was completed in 1220; and the south transept portal, which was completed around 1230.

Chartres Cathedral has undergone extensive restoration over the centuries, the most recent being a massive renovation that began in the 1990s and was completed in 2009, returning the structure to its original grandeur.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Chartres Cathedral – Chartres

Cathedral

1. Location: Chartres Cathedral is located in the town of Chartres, France. The Cathedral is situated inside the historic town of Chartres.

2. How to get there: The Cathedral is located 65km south of Paris and it takes about an hour to get there by train. You can also drive there from Paris.

3. Hours of operation: Chartres Cathedral is open from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm daily and 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm in the summer months. Opening times may vary on public holidays.

4. Things to do: Visitors can enjoy the floor plan with its Labyrinth for a prayer walk, as well as visit the stained glass windows, sculptures, and the crypt. You can also enjoy the surrounding gardens. In addition, you can take a guided tour of the Cathedral.

5. Food & Drink: There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the area where you can enjoy a meal. You can also bring a packed lunch to enjoy in the park surrounding the Cathedral.

6. Safety: Chartres Cathedral is generally a safe place for visitors. However, be sure to take the usual precautions when visiting a new place.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Chartres Cathedral – Chartres

Cathedral

1. What is Chartres Cathedral and where is it located?
Chartres Cathedral is an iconic Gothic style cathedral located in the town of Chartres, France. It dates back to the 12th century and is known for its stunning stained glass windows and inspiring architecture.

2. When was Chartres Cathedral built?
Chartres Cathedral was originally built in the early 12th century between the years 1194 and 1220.

3. How big is Chartres Cathedral?
Chartres Cathedral is approximately 130 meters long, 38 meters wide, and 35 meters high.

4. What are some of the unique features of Chartres Cathedral?
Chartres Cathedral is noted for its many stained glass windows, the 114-meter spire, statuary, and its many chapels. It also contains the tombs and relics of many French Cathars.

5. How can I visit Chartres Cathedral?
Chartres Cathedral is open to the public from 9am to 6pm every day from April to October, and from 10am to 5pm from November to March.

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