Explore Chartres Cathedral in France: Interior Architecture Photos
Unlike other medieval cathedrals that I have seen, which were damaged and rebuilt several times, Chartres cathedral has undergone minor changes. Built in 13th century, the facade of Chartres Cathedral we get to see today is almost the same as it was when it was built.
Facade of Chartres Cathedral France
There were attempts to destroy it during the French Revolution, but the clever townspeople managed to save it. Prior to WWII, the stained glass paintings were removed and stored safely. The panels are pure visual delight.
Its two spires are different (unsymmetrical).Chartres cathedral is a famous pilgrimage center because it is believed that the cathedral has the famous relic, the Sancta Camisa (Holy Shroud of the Virgin), said to be the tunic worn by the Virgin Mary at Christ’s birth.
According to legend, the relic was given to the cathedral by Charlemagne who received it as a gift from Emperor Constantine VI during a crusade to Jerusalem. There is no evidence to prove this claim though.
Chartres Cathedral Facade – View of the facade from its west end.
History of Chartres Cathedral France
Little bit of history I dug out for those who are interested. This cathedral is the sixth one built in the site.
- Paleo-Christian church from around 4th century AD destroyed by Visigoths in 8th century
- second church destroyed by Viking invasion in 858AD
- third basilica built by bishop Gislebert de Chartres this 9th century Carolingian church that received from the Holy Roman Emperor, Charles the Bald, the Sancta Camisia, the tunic supposedly worn by the Virgin Mary at the birth of Jesus. The basilica got destroyed in a war in 962
- The next one got burnt in 1020
- Fifth one constructed by Bishop Fulbert between the years 1020 and 1037. In 1194 this fifth cathedral was destroyed yet again by a fire caused by lightning. Its façade, towers, crypt and floor plan survived the fire miraculously.
These basic structures were incorporated into the construction of the next and final iteration of the Cathedral.
A piece of oriental silk given to Chartres in about 876 by Emperor Charles the Bald, still preserved to this day in the Treasury.
Interior and Stained Glass Windows
The construction is such that no direct light enters the cathedral. All light enters through the stained glass window. A visit during a sunny day will be magical for sure. Unfortunately the day I visited the cathedral, the sky was covered with grey clouds. To think that these glass panels are from 12th century! Wow!
Stained glass windows of Chartres Cathedral
Rose window of Chartres cathedral
One of the most ancient parts of the cathedral is the labyrinth. It was too dark around to get a good picture. This one shows just a part of it between the rows of chairs. It had a smooth worn out texture, of course that had to be; it is more than 8 centuries now!
It is mentioned that the rose window has almost the same size as the labyrinth. People believe that the labyrinth could be useful for healing and meditation. The huge pillars have a warm worn out feeling.
Door Arches of Chartres Cathedral France
The doors of cathedrals, the sculptures on the panel above the doors and the friezes that go around it are full of stories. Details carved out on the arches never cease to amaze me. Doors of Chartres Cathedral was another wonder that I added to my collection. I always spend some time taking shots of these.
Various statues of Kings, angels and saints are detailed with such precision in the recesses of the Royal portal! Their faces are full of expression; some had that ‘near look’ of following your movement.
The descent of Christ into the world is depicted in the tympanum of the right portal. The Virgin and Child are seated on the throne, two angels on either side. The inner arch which runs around the tympanum has angels; the outer arch has the zodiac signs Pisces and Gemini and also seven liberal arts. The bottom register shows scenes from the Life of the Virgin, including the Annunciation, the Visitation, the Nativity, and the Annunciation to the Shepherds.
Central door arch Chartres Cathedral
The arch over the central door depicts the scene of Last Judgment. Christ is seated in the tympanum, an almond shaped structure going around him, the Book of Life in his left hand. Four Evangelist surround him.
The left portal depicts ascent of Christ. This is the widest of the three doors. Click to enlarge the picture and you will see two angels holding a cloud on which Christ is standing. You can also see 4 angels singing and apostles, 10 of them holding books and scrolls in the bottom most row.
After the tour of the cathedral we toured the garden. I got some stunning captures of drenched Euphorbia flowers.
I loved it. It would have been magical had there been full Sun light on that day. Rays of light coming through the stained glass windows would have been a sight to relish.
WOW! Incredible interiors Indrani….next time you make a visit to this Cathedral…count me in.. 🙂
All those captures made me feel that it is straight out of a Dan Brown novel!! Amazing captures, especially those colored glasses.
Wonderful shots of the cathedral.
Awesome. That stained glasses picture , is great.
Informative, knowledgeable and notable post…not to forget of the beautiful photographs…!!!
Wonderful interiors and pictures of it. Colorful and special glass
The stained glass ceilings look so much a kaleidoscope of colors!
good one
Those windows are breathtaking!
Such beautiful colours even in a grey light. Boom & Gary of the Vermilon River, Canada.
love it
So beautiful Indra and the stained glass is so spectacular!
Love the colors so much…
Warm greetings from Holland,
Anna :))
Indrani, thank you for sharing the history and your beautiful photos of this cathedral. The stained glass is gorgeous. Have a happy week!
Nice!
12th century glass panels!
Wow – that stained glass is spectacular!
The whole place sparkles!
I loved visiting the cathedrals in France when we visited. Beautiful craftmanship and stained glass work. You have done well with the interior photos.
Have a wonderful week. I am linking up to you through Our World Tuesday.
Beautiful interiors of ancient church.
fascinating.
Great photos Indrani.
Thank you for your photos and the fascinating history of this cathedral. It's hard to believe those stained glass windows have survived so many centuries and so many wars.
Wonderful post. Brought back memories.
Beauty is a Black Madonna. Brilliant stained glass windows!
Regards.
Lucia
What an awesome place and amazing history! Terrific captures as always, Indrani, and I do so appreciate the history and information you include! Thank you! Have a great week!
the windows are impressive!
Wonderful pictures Indrani….i love them.