Cathedrale Saint-Etienne de Bourges, France

Saint-Étienne Cathedral is also known to many travelers as Bourges Cathedral. Its construction began in the late 12th century. The magnificent Gothic cathedral was consecrated in 1324. The official opening of the cathedral took place in the first half of the 14th century. But construction work continued continuously in it until the 16th century. The main feature of the Gothic cathedral is its unique architecture today. The most beautiful medieval sculptures are preserved here. There are also beautiful stained glass windows here. Connoisseurs of medieval art from all over the world come to admire them.

Visitors to the cathedral can see the unique stained glass windows today. They were created in the first half of the 14th century. Initially, there were 25 of them. But 22 stained glass windows have survived to the present day. The stained glass windows of the ambulatory are considered to be among the most beautiful. The crypt is one of the most ancient parts of the architectural monument. It was built in the early years of the 13th century. The crypt attracts with its majestic vaults today. Many unique religious values are stored in it.

There is an old astronomical clock in the nave of the cathedral. The first official mention of them dates back to 1422. Beautiful old sculptures are preserved on the walls of Saint-Étienne Cathedral. The statue of the Archangel Michael is considered one of the most spectacular of them. Many amazing legends are associated with it. This sculpture different from all the other sculptures by the fact that the Archangel is shown on it is smiling. The image of a smile is quite atypical for medieval sculptures.

The sculptural composition "Last Judgment" is no less impressive. It adorns the western facade of the cathedral. Initially, this bas-relief was one of the largest. Only fragments of it have survived to this day. Saint-Étienne Cathedral seems incredibly complex and intricate from an architectural point of view at first glance. But its plan is considered as simple as possible. Artistic decorations have made this religious monument world-famous. They miraculously managed to survive after hundreds of years. Next - Avignon historic center