The Amiens Cathedral, or Cathédrale Notre-Dame d'Amiens, is a Roman Catholic church located in the city of Amiens, in the Picardy region of northern France. It is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Europe and has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981.
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The cathedral was built between 1220 and 1270, primarily under the direction of architects Robert de Luzarches, Thomas de Cormont, and his son, Renaud de Cormont.
The construction was initiated to house the relics of Saint John the Baptist, which had been brought to Amiens from Constantinople in 1206.
Amiens Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in France, with an impressive interior height of 42.30 meters (138.8 feet) and a total length of 145 meters (476 feet). The cathedral's exterior is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures that depict biblical stories, saints, and local history.
The cathedral's most notable features include:
1. The west facade: The west facade is adorned with three intricately carved portals, which depict the Last Judgment, the life of Saint Firmin, and the life of Christ. Above the portals, there is a magnificent rose window and a gallery of kings, which represents the ancestors of Christ.
2. The nave: The nave of Amiens Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic engineering, with soaring columns and ribbed vaults that create an impression of height and lightness. The nave is flanked by double aisles and lined with chapels.
3. The choir: The choir features an ambulatory and a double ring of chapels, as well as an elaborate high altar and a beautiful choir screen, which is adorned with sculptures and reliefs.
4. The stained glass windows: The cathedral boasts an extensive collection of stained glass windows, some of which date back to the 13th century. The windows display vibrant colors and intricate designs, depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments.
5. The labyrinth: Located on the floor of the nave, the labyrinth of Amiens Cathedral is a medieval feature that was used by pilgrims as a symbolic journey to the Holy Land. The labyrinth is a complex pattern formed by black and white stones, and measures 12 meters (39 feet) in diameter.
The Chapels
Amiens Cathedral has a series of chapels surrounding its ambulatory and along the aisles, which were primarily used for private worship, meditation, and the celebration of masses. These chapels, often dedicated to specific saints or other religious figures, are adorned with sculptures, frescoes, and stained glass windows, reflecting the rich artistic heritage of the Gothic era.
Some notable chapels in Amiens Cathedral include:
Chapel of Saint John the Baptist: Located in the north aisle, this chapel houses a statue of Saint John the Baptist and features a stunning 16th-century stained glass window depicting scenes from his life.
Chapel of Saint Thomas of Canterbury: Dedicated to the English martyr Thomas Becket, this chapel contains a 13th-century statue of the saint and a stained glass window that illustrates his martyrdom. The chapel was donated by Napoleon III and his wife Eugenie.
Chapel of the Virgin: This chapel, situated in the chevet, is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and features a beautiful statue of her holding the Christ Child. The stained glass windows in this chapel depict scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary.
Chapel of Saint Firmin: Dedicated to the first bishop of Amiens, Saint Firmin, this chapel is located in the south aisle and contains a reliquary bust of the saint. The stained glass windows in this chapel depict various scenes from his life.
Chapel of the Sacred Heart: This chapel, found in the south transept, is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and features a 19th-century statue of Christ and a series of stained glass windows.
Conclusion
In addition to its architectural and artistic significance, Amiens Cathedral has played an important role in French history. It has been the site of royal coronations, as well as a place of refuge during times of war and conflict.
Click here to access the Amiens Cathedral website (in French only)