Background
Partly built from 1145 and reconstructed over 26 years after the fire of 1194, Chartres Cathedral marks the high point of French Gothic art. UNESCO says the vast nave in pure ogival style, the porches with their mid-12th-century sculpture and the magnificent 12th- and 13th-century stained glass, all in remarkable condition, make it a masterpiece.
At least five cathedrals have stood on the site since the 4th century. Most of the original windows survive, and the west front pairs a plain spire of about 1160 with the Flamboyant north spire of 1507 to 1513. Pilgrims come for the Sancta Camisa, said to be the Virgin's tunic.
- 4th c.The diocese of Chartres is formed
- 1145Building begins on the west front
- 1194Fire; the cathedral is rebuilt in 26 years
- 1507–1513The Flamboyant north spire
- 1979Inscribed as World Heritage
Find Your Way Around
The main parts of the site, in the order most visitors see them
- 1The GlassThe famous Chartres blue in windows mostly original to the 12th and 13th centuries.
- 2The PortalsHundreds of sculpted figures on the three facades.
- 3The LabyrinthUncovered on Fridays from spring to autumn.
- 4Crypt and North TowerFrance's largest crypt, and the tower climb with a view to the Eiffel Tower on a clear day.
- 5Stained Glass CentreHow the windows were made, in an old cellar nearby.
Know Before You Go
From Wikivoyage and the GoGo guides
Cathedral and Lower Town
From the GoGo Chartres guide · Open the Chartres Guide ›
- 09:30Chartres Cathedral2 hrsThe glass and the labyrinth.
- 14:00Cathedral Crypt and Tower75 minThe crypt and the climb.
- 15:30Eure Riverside75 minWashhouses and bridges.
- 22:00Chartres en Lumières75 minThe cathedral lit.
Best Time to Visit
Best months: May–Sep.
Typical highs
Climate: NASA POWER
Pair It With
Other World Heritage sites nearby, by distance
