4 of the Most Awe-Inspiring French Cathedrals

Paris, France
Paris, France. Photo by Ilnur Kalimullin on Unsplash

The great cathedrals are the main testament to Europe’s spiritual heritage. Colossal structures that combine religious iconography, architectural innovation, and breathtaking acoustics, are the gems of the Medieval past. Here are four of the most awe-inspiring French cathedrals that every traveler to Europe should experience for themselves.

Chartes Cathedral

This UNESCO World Heritage site has been called “the high-point of French Gothic art”. Built in the 12th century, it is one of the best-preserved cathedrals in Europe. The exquisitely detailed carvings that adorn the walls of this architectural masterpiece are almost as fresh today as at their inception.

Strasbourg Cathedral

Sitting on the French-German border, this epic cathedral is a combination of Romanesque and Rayonnant Gothic architecture. It is a mighty, imposing structure that towers over Strasbourg’s central square.

Amiens Cathedral

Built in the 13th century in only about 50 years, this is one of the most stylistically unified cathedrals in France. It is beautifully geometric and instills a sense of harmony.

Bayeux Cathedral

This was the original cathedral of William the Conqueror, first Norman king of England. Constructed in the 11th century, it is older than the other cathedrals on this list and was probably the original home of the famous Bayeux tapestry.