Gothic architecture has captivated people for centuries. From exquisite cathedrals to ambitious castles, these awe-inspiring structures are a gateway to the past. From Europe to North America, there are many impressive Gothic structures worldwide, each allowing one to explore unique and intricate features. Whether these structures are visited in person or virtually, their beauty and historical significance will leave a lasting impression. Here are our favourite gothic architecture sites that you should definitely visit.
Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France, is renowned for it's beautiful Gothic architecture and iconic features. Construction of the majestic building began in 1163, as initiated by Maurice de Sully, bishop of Paris, and was largely completed by 1260, though it has since been modified in successive centuries. Notre Dame became a symbol of Paris's political, economic, intellectual and cultural power at home and abroad and is the most visited UNESCO world heritage site in Paris, with around 13 million visitors annually. The cathedral is awe-inspiring, 420 feet long, 157 feet wide and 115 feet high, with a central nave roof height of 35 meters. Notre Dame has survived numerous wars, revolutions and turbulent events throughout its 800-year history before suffering extensive damage from a tragic fire in 2019, revealing remarkable hidden architecture. Its resilience, gravity-defying design and detailed history make it a must-visit destination, highlighting the strength and beauty of France's Medieval Gothic architecture.
The Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey is a unique combination of two types of architecture, namely Gothic and Islamic. Built in the 6th century by the Byzantine emperor Justinian I, the Hagia Sophia has been an essential symbol of Byzantine architecture for centuries. The Ottomans added Islamic features, such as four minarets and a mihrab to the existing architecture, without significantly altering the original structure. The Hagia Sophia's iconic dome appears to be suspended from heaven, and its impressive design has made it the largest cathedral in the world for almost 1000 years. Additionally, the Byzantine and Islamic features of the Hagia Sophia combine to create a unique blend of culture and beauty. The Golden Gate, mosaics, and marble pillars make it an impressive site.
Cologne Cathedral in Cologne, Germany, is a magnificent Gothic structure. It's the largest Gothic church in Northern Europe and features immense twin towers that soar 515 feet (157 metres). It has achieved World Heritage Site status, conferred by UNESCO in 1996. Its exterior is an intricate and detailed assortment of artistic tracery and steep gables, incredibly dense with blind tracery. The interiors of these gables are decorated with the three-petal motif (Dreistrahl). From the side, its shape is lost to the striking play of its spires. Its façade is the world's largest and offers a breathtaking experience to all who view it. It took more than 600 years for its construction to be completed, and even today, it is a powerful symbol of Cologne's skyline. The interior of the cathedral is no less awe-inspiring. Its narrow central aisle or nave leads to the choir and is flanked by two aisles along each side. The transept features a modern bronze altar. Behind it, the choir stalls were carved from 1308 to 1311. Other wonders include the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings, an ancient, jewel-studded sarcophagus.
