Chartres Cathedral

Rick and I took the train to Chartres from Paris. It's not a long trip and well worth the bumpy ride on the old RER line. On the train on a field trip with their teacher, were some school children, who at lunchtime opened their lunches and wished each other "bon appetite" before dining.

Chartres Cathedral is the finest example of a Gothic Cathedral. From nave to choir, its architecture was the template for several which came after it. Its stained-glass windows are amazing. Some are designs of tiny squares or triangles. Others have Bible scenes. They are all in the most-stunning jewel tones. Some reach nearly to the ceiling. There are three rose windows.

It is fortunate that the Chartres Cathedral has suffered little damage. After the fire in the roof in 1836, there was a metal structure put in place which makes the building more sound to this day. France owns this magnificent church, and the Catholic Church and City of Chartres contribute to its ongoing well-being.

Unesco