| The Cathedral of Chartres was largely
rebuilt during a construction campaign begun in 1194 when the cathedral
suffered extensive damage from fire. The resulting reconstruction represents
one of the high points in French Gothic architecture. The quadripartite
vaults of the nave rise high above a beautifully proportioned
nave wall consisting of a nave arcade, triforium,
and clerestory filled with stained glass windows. At the
two ends of the transept and the west facade which terminates
the nave are magnificent rose windows. Outside, the west,
north, and south portals are decorated with stunning sculpture,
notably the jamb sculptures representing kings and queens
of France and the relief sculptures of the tympanums
depicting biblical subjects.
Chartres was rebuilt with funds provided from a variety of sources indicative of the cathedral's national, regional, and local significance. The king of France, the nobility, the bishop, and the guilds provided funds. Local craftsmen and workers provided goods and labor. The cathedral served not only as a place of worship and of religious instruction, but also as a local meeting hall and the guardian of the precious tunic of the Virgin Mary which had been granted the town of Chartres by Charles the Bald and which was celebrated several times a year on occasions which led Chartres to become a a major regional market. |
CHARTRES RESOURCES
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