Gothic Cathedrals throughout Europe are among the most recommended attractions to visit. The obvious reason is its majestic architecture and gigantic height. What characterized the Gothic architecture are the pointed arches, flying buttress, intricate tracery, and rib vault.Â
Gothic Cathedrals in Europe are the best examples of fine Gothic architecture which has been developed throughout the medieval period from the Romanesque style. Cathedrals were built to show adoration to God. Several aspects were taken into consideration while building the holy complexes. The idea was to merge the aesthetic side along with the architectural structures and the religious requirements. For instance, stone sculptures and statues of Saints were added on the walls, along with intricate reliefs around the doors. Though, some of the sculptures might send a chill down the spine with frightening mythical creatures (body of a lion and head of a goat, and the Strix who is believed to eat human flesh). Additionally, there are the ubiquitous rose walls which symbolize the Virgin Mary. Most of the Gothic Cathedrals have incorporated the rose windows in the west facade.
And if you’re touring Europe for your next vacation, then consider our list of some of the top Gothic Cathedrals in Europe down below.Â
1. Chartres Cathedral, France
image: Wikimedia Commons2. Canterbury Cathedral, UK
image: Wikimedia Commons3. Salisbury Cathedral, UK
image: Wikimedia Commons4. Lisbon Cathedral, Portugal
image: Darrell Godliman5. St. Vitus Cathedral, Czech Republic
image: Deborah Moynihan6. Strasbourg Cathedral, France
image: Wikimedia Commons7. Rouen Cathedral, France
image: Markus Schlicht8. Cologne Cathedral, Germany
image: Wikimedia Commons9. Zagreb Cathedral, Croatia
image: Pixabay10. Gloucester Cathedral, UK
image: Wikimedia Commons