Chartres Gothic Architecture

Beginning with the evolution of Romanesque architecture, a new mode of architecture had been born. Gothic architecture began in the midst of France during the Medieval period and through this emergence a series of cathedrals were born under the strain of Notre-Dame. One of the most fascinating is the divine Chartres Cathedral of Chartres, France, dedicated to the Virgin Mary (3). Noted as holy, feminine, and secretive the Chartres has been a fabrication of nothing short of extraordinary (2). The Chartres Cathedral is perhaps one of the most exquisite compositions of French High Gothic architecture and as a result may be one of the most magnificent cathedrals in France due to its historical structure and architecture, spiritual labyrinth, celestial …show more content…
Because the architecture of this era had been so radical, In France the windows of cathedrals had begun to exceed themselves beyond an elementary impression, they became enormous enabling an plathora of natural light to pour in, all for the sake of prayer. As a result of such windows, moments occurred in which it was feared the cathedral may pour in, so for the first time flying buttresses were used to help support them (2). Though they are assorted into different colors and representations, they are known for being an intense blue, which is the color the Virgin Mary has been associated with (1). Reflections of Mary are portrayed throughout the windows of the cathedral and she is often accompanied with her son, Jesus. “One of the oldest windows, saved from the fire, depicts Mary holding her son on her lap. She is not clasping him to her, but offering him to the world as if to say, “Go ahead now. Your work is out there.” This scene was placed by the builders in a new window that tells the story of the wedding at Cana” (1). Representations like this can be seen throughout the cathedral, allowing visitors to trust where they are at and who may be observing them, and when all had been fathomed prayer may …show more content…
Even today the cathedral is continually being aesthetically improved. The Chartres has left a lasting impression on experimental and transitional architecture trough it’s structure, interior, and certainly exterior. The labyrinth still offers a sense of security and sculptures continue to stand together. The deep blue glass stained windows are still shining, strongly representing Mary and Jesus. And finally the Chartres continues to be the perfect cathedral to feel warm in and allow oneself to immerse in the power of Christ and the Virgin