Bourges Cathedral in France

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
The St.Etienne's Cathedral
Les amis de la Cathédrale de Bourges (in French)
tour et crypte de la Cathédrale de Bourges (in French)

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1992
Size of heritage: 0.85 ha
- Buffer zone: 105 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 2,398°
Latitude: 47,082°

Summary

The Cathedral of St Etienne of Bourges, built between the late 12th and late 13th centuries, is one of the great masterpieces of Gothic art and is admired for its proportions and the unity of its design. The tympanum, sculptures and stained-glass windows are particularly striking. Apart from the beauty of the architecture, it attests to the power of Christianity in medieval France.

Location on Map

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Introduction

Bourges Cathedral, located in the Department of Cher in the Centre Region of France, is a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site. This medieval masterpiece stands as a testament to the architectural and artistic achievements of its time. With its rich history and stunning design, Bourges Cathedral continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

History

Bourges Cathedral, also known as Cathédrale Saint-Étienne de Bourges, was constructed between the late 12th and early 13th centuries. The cathedral was built on the site of a former Carolingian cathedral, which had been destroyed by fire. The construction of the new cathedral was commissioned by Archbishop Henri de Sully, who aimed to create a grand place of worship that would rival the great cathedrals of Paris and Chartres.

The construction of Bourges Cathedral was a monumental undertaking, employing the finest craftsmen and artisans of the time. The cathedral's design is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, characterized by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. The intricate details and delicate sculptures adorning the exterior and interior of the cathedral showcase the skill and creativity of the craftsmen involved.

Current State

Today, Bourges Cathedral stands as one of the most well-preserved Gothic cathedrals in France. Its imposing façade, adorned with intricate sculptures and beautiful stained glass windows, continues to inspire awe in visitors. The cathedral's interior is equally breathtaking, with its soaring nave, elegant columns, and stunning rose windows.

One of the highlights of Bourges Cathedral is its collection of stained glass windows. These windows, dating back to the 13th century, depict biblical scenes and saints in vibrant colors. The windows are considered masterpieces of medieval stained glass art and are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artists who created them.

The cathedral also houses a number of important relics and artworks. The most notable of these is the tomb of Duke Jean de Berry, a lavish masterpiece of medieval funerary art. The tomb is adorned with intricate sculptures and depicts the duke in a regal pose, surrounded by mourners.

In addition to its architectural and artistic significance, Bourges Cathedral also plays an important role in the religious life of the community. Regular religious services and ceremonies are held within its walls, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

Conclusion

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 6:30 - 22:30
Weekend: 7:00 - 22:30

Videos from the area

Colloque Alchimie Bourges

Published: January 20, 2015
Length: 00:10 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Fulcanelli

Extrait du colloque "les nouveaux alchimistes" qui s'est tenu à Bourges les 9 et 10 Novembre 2014. Disponible dans son intégralité en DVD (8 heures d'enregistrement vidéo). Suivre ce lien...

14e Nuit des Arts Martiaux de Bourges 2014 - TAEKKYON

Published: May 05, 2014
Length: 48:32 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Jean-Sébastien Bressy

Démonstration de Taekkyon par le Centre Français du Taekkyon à la 14e Nuit des Arts Martiaux de Bourges, le 15 mars 2014. Avec les professeurs Jean-Sébastien Bressy, Guillaume Pinot et...

L'Excellence de la Marqueterie dans les collections des Musées de Bourges (18)

Published: July 21, 2013
Length: 27:39 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Sandra Boulou

Exposition sur la Marqueterie au Musée National des Meilleurs Ouvriers de France de Bourges et au Musée des Arts Décoratifs à l'Hôtel Lallemant de Bourges (18) Web vidéo reportage de...

Faire du vélo à Bourges - Quand on passe de l'irrespect à l'agressivité

Published: March 05, 2014
Length: 18:42 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Mon Cher Vélo

A vélo pour faire respecter vos droits, il n'existe pas de bonne solution : . parler avec l'automobiliste ? Il vous enverra paître - cf http://youtu.be/5SlLtMaRPRs - . toucher à sa voiture...

VIDEO NATIONALE D'ELEVAGE BOURGES 2015

Published: February 24, 2015
Length: 01:00 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Olivier Garcia

Ixes Voxel Ux 1er Excellent Classe Intermédiaire Femelle Juge: Mme Larive Jeannette Jack Jr de l'Isle au Vert Coteau 1er Excellent Classe Jeune Mâle Meilleur Jeune Juge : Mr Mattera Cassandre.

Videos provided by Youtube are under the copyright of their owners.

Near airports

Bourges Airport
Medium airport - 2 mi (4 km)

Nevers-Fourchambault Airport
Medium airport - 34 mi (55 km)

Châteauroux-Déols 'Marcel Dassault' Airport
Medium airport - 35 mi (57 km)

Montluçon-Domérat Airport
Small airport - 51 mi (83 km)

Montluçon-Guéret Airport
Medium airport - 59 mi (96 km)

Guéret St Laurent Airport
Small airport - 66 mi (106 km)

Blois-Le Breuil Airport
Medium airport - 69 mi (112 km)

Auxerre-Branches Airport
Medium airport - 74 mi (119 km)

Tours-Val-de-Loire Airport
Large airport - 82 mi (132 km)

Paris-Orly Airport
Large airport - 114 mi (183 km)