The mesmerizing Strasbourg Cathedral - 1000 years of history & legends Other moving figures include a trumpet player carrying a banner and a pretzel vendor being offered flour, water, and salt by the caryatides on the console. [80], The north transept connects with the Chapel of Saint John, entered through a pointed Gothic arch containing a rounded Romanesque arch. At noon, a group of three mechanical kings would prostrate themselves before the infant Jesus, while the chimes of the clock sounded the hour. Here are the best facts about Strasbourg Cathedral 1. Outside, the facade is the greatest "book" of images the Middle Ages has to offer. Architect Erwin von Steinbach is credited for major contributions from 1277 to his death in 1318, and beyond through his son Johannes von Steinbach, and his grandson Gerlach von Steinbach, who succeeded him as chief architects. When the nave was rebuilt in Gothic style in the 13th century, the old windows were reinstalled in random locations. Notre Dame de Strasbourg Cathedral. Above this is a globe, with painted figures of the Church and the Antichrist confronting each other. 5 out of 5 stars (7,356) $ 17.50. When Bishop Werner I supported the winning candidate, Henry II of Germany, one of his Henry's rivals, Hermann of Germany, raided Strasbourg and burned down the cathedral. The octagonal vault is covered with arches and lacelike interlaced sculpture in the late Gothic Flamboyant style. Its also the capital of the Bas-Rhin department. [35] Fragments can be seen in the Muse de luvre Notre-Dame. The design is composed of a series of unfolded arches which rest on a submerged "Latin Cross" floor plan. It also preserves the earliest plans of the cathedral, as well as paintings and tapestries and other objects. [19], 1277 plan for west front (Plan Riss B restitution), Construction of Strasbourg Cathedral, by Thophile Schuler, 1850, Strasbourg Cathedral in the Middle Ages, painting by August von Bayer (19th century), The next major project was the rebuilding of the west front, or facade, in the Gothic style. Strasbourg Cathedral is over 1,000 years old Officially named "Notre-Dame de Strasbourg" ("Our Lady of Strasbourg"), the Cathedral was built in a Gothic style, and is still to this day a "light and delicate marvel", as Victor Hugo called it. It is separated from the nave by two massive pillars, 8.5 by 5 meters, which support the tower above. Walk up 66 meters to marvel at the view of Strasbourg from the top of the clock. [83], Animated characters launch into movement at different hours of the day. It is easily recognizable by its pink sandstone faade and its unique tower. [67] It is surrounded and supported by four more slender towers containing circular stairways. The tracery and decoration of the interior are very much like of that exterior, with blind galleries and delicate parallel vertical lines, like the strings of a harp. If you enjoyed this video, make sure to subscribe to our channel. [84], Canon Conrad de Bussnang praying to Virgin and Child. The rose window, with a rayonnant Gothic design, is fourteen metres in diameter and was finished in 1345. Strasbourg Cathedral or the Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg (French: Cathdrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, or Cathdrale de Strasbourg, German: Liebfrauenmnster zu Straburg or Straburger Mnster), also known as Strasbourg Minster, is a Catholic cathedral in Strasbourg, Alsace, France. The supporting buttresses on either side also have very expressive sculpture representing the Virgin Mary and the three Magi on one side, and a group of Saints on the other, both sheltered beneath lacelike flamboyant sculpture and pinnacles. A round, Baroque sacristy of modest proportions was added north-east of the northern transept in 1744 by the city's chief architect Joseph Massol according to plans by Robert de Cotte and between 1772 and 1778 architect Jean-Laurent Goetz surrounded the cathedral by a gallery in early Gothic Revival style in order to reorganise the merchants' shops that used to settle around the building (and would do so until 1843). [68] Its base is topped by a gallery with pointed arches, beneath a level with large arched bays, two on each side, side, divided by clusters of columns. [84], In 2004 the apse and choir received some of its historic furnishings; fifteen choir stalls made by Claude Burdy and Claude Bergerat in 1692, as well as a group of busts of the apostles originally placed there in the 18th century. [44] On 1 March 1941, General Leclerc made the "Oath of Kufra" (serment de Koufra), stating he would "rest the weapons only when our beautiful colours fly again on Strasbourg's cathedral". It is the seat of a Bishop.
11 Things to do in Strasbourg France: History, Culture, and Food Many of his writings have not ever been translated. The nave and choir were composed of three vessels, each with two traverses. . [8], Animated mechanical figure of Samson and a lion. The sculptor Jacques Zimmer added the heads of cherubs made of bronze.
Design and Destruction at Strasbourg Cathedral in Alsace, France [81], The man on the balustrade (south transept). Strasbourg Cathedral Interesting Facts The construction of the cathedral took 424 years. He reconstructed the dome over the transept in a grander, Romanesque Revival style. The original construction phase utilized the Romanesque architectural style. The belltower is 142 m high. The face is flanked by two cylindrical towers with narrow lancet windows and pointed roofs. It is still in place.[86]. And finally, here's my list of the top 4 packing essentials you shouldn't head to the Strasbourg Cathedral without. The capitals of the columns are decorated with dragons and other mythical creatures. [10], The history of Strasbourg's cathedral is well documented thanks to the archives of the Notre-Dame Foundation, the city of Strasbourg, and of the diocese. The original construction of the church on its current location started in the year 1015. Between 1200 and 1228, the Romanesque vaults of the north transept were replaced by the pointed Gothic rib vault, which were stronger and shifted the thrust of the weight outwards, reducing the need for massive pillars in the interior. Above that are three narrow windows and then a triangular gable with a small circular oculus window and blind arches.
Inside Strasbourg Cathedral: A Must-Visit in Strasbourg, France One angel sounds the bell while a second turns over an hourglass. .The lower part of the massive base of the clock has statues of Apollo and the Goddess Diana presenting a circular calendar of the liturgical year, whose revolving face with a globe points to the dates of major religious festivals and events. [16], A Roman settlement called Argentoratum, twenty hectares in size, existed on the site since about 12 B.C., at a strategic point where bridges crossed the Rhine and two of its tributaries. 1500) by Nikolaus Hagenauer, probably from the former main altar of the cathedral, Parts of the original astronomical clock (Strasbourg Museum of Decorative Arts). Strasbourg Cathedral While Goethe's poems on nature, romance, science and his great novel Faust have long been available to the English-speaking audience, his writings on art and literature, as in Essays, are less familiar. The larger crypt has three naves, of equal size, divided by slender columns. The guard's house, located in the spot planned for the second spire, reflects a rich history going back to the 16th century. The work of Professor Robert O. Bork of the University of Iowa suggests that the design of the Strasbourg faade, while seeming almost random in its complexity, can be constructed using a series of rotated octagons. The history of Strasbourg's cathedral is well documented thanks to the archives of the Notre-Dame Foundation, the city of Strasbourg, and of the diocese. [41][42], During World War II, the cathedral was seen as a symbol for both warring parties. Strasbourg Cathedral or the Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg , also known as Strasbourg Minster, is a Catholic cathedral in Strasbourg, Alsace, France. In 1877, architect Gustave Klotz reconstituted the windows in their original arrangement. Another remarkable feature inside the church is the Strasbourg astronomical clock. Its the third clock on this location and was installed in the year 1843, with previous clocks dating back to the 14th and 16th centuries. The exterior height of the central nave reaches an astounding 40 meters (130 feet) as well. The cathedral is known for its ornate architecture and is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Europe. [54][55] It presents a virtual theater of late Gothic flamboyant architecture and decoration, including three interlocking arches over the doors, containing a statue of the Saint during his martyrdom. Lets take a closer look at some of the most interesting facts about Strasbourg Cathedral. During the French Revolution in the late 18th century, churches in France were in great danger. 1. [45] During that same war, the stained glass was removed in 74 cases. [67], The Klotz designed crossing dome over the transept, The crossing dome being built, 1878 or 1879, Romanesque vaults beneath the Klotz crossing dome. The meeting points between the columns and the vault ribs is decorated with vegetal sculpture. The cathedral has a rich history, dating back to the . The cathedral was built in Gothic style.
The 15 Best Things to Do in Strasbourg, France - TripSavvy Although considerable parts of it are still in Romanesque architecture, it is widely considered At 142 metres , Strasbourg Cathedral was the world's tallest building from 1647 to 1874 , when it was surpassed by St. Nikolai's Church, Hamburg. At the lower level are statues of the four Evangelists. Archaeological excavations below and around the cathedral have been conducted in 1896-1897, 1907, 1923-1924, 1947-1948, between 1966 and 1972, and finally between 2012 and 2014.. It measures 142 m (466 ft) and remained the tallest building in the world until 1847. After trying several temporary measures, in 1915, during the First World War, he launched a large-scale project to replace the entire foundation of the cathedral with concrete. (15th c.), The chapel as it appeared in the 14th century (19th-century engraving), Tomb of Bishop Conrad de Lichtenberg (131020), The Chapel of Saint John the Baptist is located just to the left of the apse, at the northeast end of the cathedral. Ad vertisement from shop HayleesSilver. Strasbourg Cathedral is the oldest Gothic cathedral in the world and one of the must-sees when visiting Strasbourg. The pointed gable over the central portal, decorated with a sculpture of the Virgin Mary and child, reaches up into the space in front of the rose window. "[36], The cathedral was not returned to church control until July 15, 1801, along with confiscated property that had not been destroyed. Marvel at the oldest Gothic cathedral of Europe with your local tour guide.
THE 10 BEST Strasbourg Sights & Historical Landmarks Its place as the bourdon, or largest and deepest-sounding bell, was taken by an older bell, the "Totenglock", or "Death bell", which was traditionally used for mourning. The extension concerns the Neustadt, new town, designed and built under the German administration (1871-1918).
10 Best Facts about Strasbourg Cathedral - Discover Walks Blog Strasbourg Cathedral (official French: Notre-Dame de Strasbourg ,German: Liebfrauenmnster zu Straburg, Our Lady of Strasbourg) is the Cathedral in Strasbourg. The west front was also exceptional because it was flanked by two towers, the "harmonic" style which became common in Gothic cathedrals during the following century. The construction of this church is a mixture of Roman and Gothic architecture. In 2015, the city has celebrated the millennial anniversary of its cathedral. When the Romans were driven out, the original structure was replaced by a temple dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The statue of the "Synagogue" is blindfolded, since Jews did not recognise the divinity of Christ.
Strasbourg - Wikipedia Its the capital of the Grand Est region of France in the historic region of Alsace.
Strasbourg Cathedral Building, France - e-architect Take a moment to yourself in the cathedral; sit in a pew and enjoy the peace. Strasbourg Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral in Strasbourg, France. In 1918 Alsace and Strasbourg and Alscace were once again attached to France. Cathedral facts for kids. [34] The main or high altar, a major work of early Renaissance sculpture, was also demolished that year. One of the most amazing facts about Strasbourg Cathedral is that an addition was made in the early 16th century in the post-Gothic, early-Renaissance style, as well. They feature a Tree of Jesse (The Genealogy of Christ) and the judgement of Solomon (right window) and the Virgin Mary with John the Baptist and John the Evangelist) as well as King Solomon, the Queen of Sheba and King David on the left. Above this is a colourful clock with the signs of the zodiac. It lies on the left bank of the Rhine, opposite the German city of Kehl . One of the most remarkable facts about Strasbourg Cathedral is that even though its considered to be the epitome of a church in the Gothic architectural style, the first phase consisted of Romanesque buildings. The central decoration is sculptural work dedicated to the Virgin Mary donated by the de Barby brothers in 1521. Take the time to marvel at the magnificent, amazing statuary inside and outside of this masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Stavelot Triptych. [71], Two chapels, devoted to Saint Andrew and Saint John the Baptist, were attached to the two sides of the apse. [17], The first cathedral built on the present site was erected by the bishop Saint Arbogast in about 550575. One of the oldest gothic cathedrals in France and the world, along with the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. What makes this monument extraordinarily impressive are the steeple with . Construction began in 1015, and it was largely completed in 1432.
Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg | www.strassburg.eu Described by Victor Hugo as a "gigantic and delicate marvel",[7] and by Goethe as a "sublimely towering, wide-spreading tree of God",[2] the cathedral is visible far across the plains of Alsace and can be seen from as far off as the Vosges Mountains or the Black Forest on the other side of the Rhine. This part of the clock is surrounded by painted figures representing the ancient empires Greece, Assyria, Persia, and Rome. As the spire of the cathedral is dominating the Strasbourg skyline, one starts to wonder why the building has an asymmetrical form, giving the structure the appearance that something is missing. A monument has been erected in his honor in a town nearby called Steinbach which is part of the town of Baden-Baden, about 30 kilometers (20 miles) to the northeast of Strasbourg. [40], In 1903, the architect Johann Knauth discovered cracks on the first pillar of the northern side of the nave. It was called the Dreiknigsuhr ("three-king clock"), and was located at the opposite wall from where today's clock is. Figures of two reclining women hold a cadran (clock face) between them which tells the minutes. Construction finished in 1439 with the erection of the emblematic North tower. Cathdrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg Address Pl. The design called for a west front taller and wider than the nave behind it. The Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg is the landmark of the city and known in the whole world. One of the most fascinating churches in the world can be found in the east of France. After the spire of the St. Marys church in Stralsund burned down, it became the tallest building in the world, a record it would hold a total of 227 years between 1647 and 1874!
Strasbourg Cathedral - Wikiwand It is a major architectural, historical, and cultural landmark in the city. Among the paintings, those worthy of mention are the "Assumption of the Virgin" and "Ascension of Christ", by Joseph Heim (1787-1865). Dreamstime is the world`s largest stock photography community. In October 1988, when the city celebrated its 2,000th anniversary (as the first official mention of Argentoratum dates from 12 BC), pope John Paul II visited and celebrated mass in the cathedral. This is crowned by the cross, which is surrounded by four smaller crosses and images of the host and chalice, elements of the liturgy of the Eucharist. While its most definitely assumed that drawings of buildings were made before the construction of this cathedral, the construction of this particular church marked an important moment in architectural history. The crossing dome is placed over the meeting point of the transept and the choir, and, like the bell tower, has eight sides.
15 Iconic Facts About Strasbourg Cathedral | Ultimate List Christianity was first imposed in 313 by the Edict of Constantine.
Visiting Strasbourg Cathedral: All You Need to Know