Today, Gothic architecture strikes the imagination no less than centuries ago. And also, you never know where you will stumble upon a unique style. After all, it is found in grandiose cathedrals, and in churches, and even in residential buildings. Gothic architecture is of several types, with their own characteristics. French, English and Italian gothic architecture are incomparable. But France is the cradle of Gothic architecture, which over time has become in a sense sacred. You can also check out the list of the 10 most beautiful places in France.
Gothic is probably the most enchanting architectural style in existence. A special beauty in the extraordinary complexity and abundance of elaborated small details. Gothic artwork has stood the test of time. That is why it is so common to see newly built churches, echoing Gothic features.
This article will talk about 10 "classic" examples of Gothic architecture that have no equal... If you are ever lucky enough to see at least one of them in real life, you will experience true greatness, strange nostalgia and the presence of long-dead people whose ghosts seem to roam the halls. Nothing is like the feelings that arise in front of incredible buildings.
10. St. Stephen's Cathedral
The most beautiful embodiment of the Gothic style, St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna was erected in 1147 on the site where two churches stood before it. This is the most important religious building in Austria, the See of the Vienna Archbishop. Throughout its existence, St. Stephen's Cathedral has seen many events that changed history. It is the national symbol and the symbol of Vienna, and has the Austrian and Viennese coats of arms on its roof.
Interesting fact: the north tower was originally conceived as a mirror image of the south one. But the construction of the cathedral was delayed, the Gothic era passed, and the northern tower was crowned with a Renaissance dome, thanks to which the inhabitants of Vienna ironically call it “the roof of the water tower". They also call the door to the cathedral "the giant's door". The door, along with the towers of the cathedral, is the oldest part of the cathedral. During World War II, the south tower lost its bells, however, there is still a working bell tower on the north tower.
9. Mir Castle (Belarus)
One of the most attractive sights of Belarus is the amazing Mir Castle, located in the Grodno region. Its construction was started by the notorious Prince Ilyinich at the beginning of the 16th century. And although this three-story castle was conceived as a Gothic one, it was completed by the next owner, Nikolai Radziwill, in the Renaissance style, surrounded by an earthen rampart, in addition, an Italian garden was laid out behind the northern wall.
Later, the Mir Castle, badly damaged during the Napoleonic wars, was bought by Nikolai Svyatopolk-Mirsky. He began the restoration of the castle, which was subsequently continued by his heir, who even hired the respected architect Theodor Boursche for this. This family owned the castle until 1939. During World War II, the castle was a Jewish ghetto. Subsequently, it entered the housing stock, and today it is part of the National Heritage, an important monument of Belarusian culture and just an amazing example of Gothic architecture.
8. Cathedral of Our Lady of Antwerp (Belgium)
Cathedral of Our Lady of Antwerp is a Catholic church in the Belgian city of Antwerp. Its construction began in 1352, but was stopped in 1521, still considered unfinished to this day. The story began with a small chapel of the Mother of God, which stood in its place from the 9th to the 12th century, and now it is the largest and most impressive Gothic church in the Netherlands.
Seeing this majestic structure, it is difficult to imagine that in 1533 it almost burned down to the ground, which, in fact, was not completed. Yet, thanks to its sublime beauty, the cathedral became archbishop's. Later, from the beginning of the 19th century to the middle of the 20th century, it was empty and partially destroyed during local wars. So, the miracle of architecture endured the tests of fire and wars and, finally, found peace, by the end of the twentieth century, being completely restored and open to tourists.
7. Cologne Cathedral (Germany)
Cologne Cathedral - a German symbol of Catholicism, a Roman Catholic church located in the German city of Cologne and now serving as the seat of the archbishop... The construction of the cathedral took place from 1248 to 1473, then it stopped and continued only in the 19th century. The religious significance of the cathedral is comparable only to its cultural value. Cologne Cathedral is part of the World Heritage Site and attracts a huge number of tourists. Cologne Cathedral holds the record for the largest. It is the first largest cathedral in Northern Europe, its sphere is the second tallest, and its façade is the largest of any churches in the world.
Cologne Cathedral was built on the same type as the Cathedral of Our Lady of Amiens, with its outline, which is a Latin cross, complemented by Gothic vaults. Inside the cathedral, you can see the most beautiful stained glass windows, a stunning altar, unusual mountings and much more. In general, there is really a lot of beauty in this amazing building, and it is simply worth seeing with your own eyes. You can also read an article on the 10 largest temples and cathedrals in the world.
6. Burgos Cathedral (Spain)
Built in the 13th century, the Catholic Burgos Cathedral in Spain is striking in size, impeccable construction and finishes. The construction of the masterpiece began in 1221 and ended in 1567. The cathedral is dedicated to the Holy Virgin Mary. Later it was supplemented with elements of Renaissance architecture. Today it is the only Spanish cathedral included in the World Heritage List.
In addition to the building itself, this sacred place really has something to see, for example, the statues of the twelve apostles or the Condestable chapel. Among other things, lovers of Gothic aesthetics will love the numerous statues of angels, knights and heraldry.
5. St. Vitus Cathedral (Czech Republic)
St. Vitus Cathedral is located in Prague and is a remarkable representative of the Gothic style. There are simply no words to describe its beauty. He's just amazing. Anyone who has a chance to see it should take it.
The cathedral is known not only as an outstanding example of Gothic art, but also as the most respected and important church in Bohemia. And the biggest one. It is located close to Prague Castle and, in addition, there are tombs of the kings.
4. Westminster Abbey (England)
Westminster Abbey was formerly called St Peter's Cathedral Church at Westminster. To date one of the most recognizable religious buildings in London. According to legend, at the beginning of the 21st century, on the site of the present Westminster Abbey, there was the Thorn Hay Church.
In 1245, by order of Henry III, the construction of the Abbey began for his future burial. In the future, many royal weddings were held there. An amazing example of Gothic architecture has seen many events, wars, it had enough damage and glorious days. Now it is a material reminder of all this.
3. Chartres Cathedral (France)
Chartres Cathedral is also called the Cathedral of Our Lady of Chartres. The medieval Catholic cathedral is located in France. Most of it was built from 1194 to 1250, and it is remarkably well preserved. Later, the cathedral was slightly changed, but for the most part it remained the same as it was originally. The Holy Shroud of the Virgin Mary kept in the cathedral is an important Christian relic... It is believed that she was on Mary at the time of the birth of Jesus. That is, the cathedral attracts not only tourists, but also Christian pilgrims.Check out article 10 of the controversial Christian relics.
2. Rheinstein Castle (Germany)
Rheinstein Castle is a stately hillside structure in Germany. In addition to being an unforgettable sight, this castle surpasses all other buildings of that period in style.
It was built in just a year by 1317, but by 1344 it had begun to creep and collapse. But still, after a few centuries, Prince Frederick of Prussia bought and rebuilt it and lived in it until his death.
1. Town Hall in Oudenaard (Belgium)
And finally, number one on our list is the delightful Town Hall in Oudenaard. This masterpiece was designed by the architect Hendrik van Pede. The construction time is from 1526 to 1537. This is a must see for anyone interested in history and beautiful old buildings.
