Because they are part of French national heritage, cathedrals have always been an object of fascination. Here is our selection of these most beautiful historical monuments!
France lists more than 150 cathedrals distributed throughout its territory. Each one bears witness to a very particular era and architectural style. Formerly recognized as the bishop's seatthe cathedral is the spiritual and historical center of the diocese. Through its construction, each building tells the story of the evolution of religious art over the centuries. Note that some cathedrals were even built on ancient places of worship, a way of promoting the importance of their heritage value and historical. Thanks to their tall spiers and majestic stained glass windows, they all fascinate millions of believers and visitors each year.
What is the most visited Gothic cathedral in France?
Despite the restoration work undertaken after the 2019 fire, Notre-Dame of Paris remains, to this day, the Gothic cathedral which attracts the most pilgrims every year. Located in the heart of the capital, this building attracts millions of tourists every year who come to admire its flying buttresses, gargoyles and famous stained glass windows. Its structure is the result of centuries of additions and restorations, which have shaped its unique character. Finally, beyond its architectural interest, it embodies an important symbol of French cultureillustrated in the novels of Victor HugoNotre-Dame de Paris.
Notre-Dame de Paris, Chartes Cathedral… What is the most beautiful cathedral in France in 2024?
If Notre-Dame de Paris had not been under construction since 2019, it is a safe bet that it would be at the top of the list. However, in 2024, it is Chartres Cathedral which appears as the most beautiful in France. Elle succeeds the Saint-Julien cathedral in Le Mansin Sarthe, elected in 2023 among 32 monuments. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Gothic cathedral is renowned for the sumptuousness of its stained glass windows. Also note that Chartres Cathedral fascinates many visitors for its harmonious proportions and its architecture of great finesse. Finally, the spiritual atmosphere that it gives off and its remarkable state of conservation make it a particularly popular place for people wishing to discover the excellence of French Gothic art.
What is the largest and tallest French cathedral?
With an impressive interior surface area and a vault height of almost 42 meters, Amiens Cathedral is considered to be the largest in France in terms of volume. Built in the 13th century, this Gothic cathedral is distinguished by its gigantic proportions and its incomparable architecture. Featuring richly decorated portals and sculptures depicting scenes from the Bible, the religious building is sublime in its grandeur. Inside, its dimensions offer an incomparable volume of space. Finally, its majestic appearance and its importance in French architectural history make it a unique site and an unmissable place for lovers of religious architecture and history.
Sources :
- Top 20 of the most beautiful cathedrals in FranceDetours in France, April 10, 2019
- Notre-Dame de Paris, this most visited French monumentOuest-France, April 15, 2019
- Notre-Dame d'Amiens is the largest Gothic cathedralMinistry of Culture,
- Ranking of the 10 largest cathedrals in FranceTravel with us November 14, 2023
- The most beautiful cathedrals in FranceGEO, January 19, 2024
- Religious heritage and municipalities: the point in five questionsPublic Life, September 15, 2022
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