Travel France ~ Destination: Chartres
No class on Friday means more exploring! Although we had thought that we might travel outside of France our first weekend, we realized that there is already so much to do and see within France, we might as well explore this beautiful country! During class Professor Thomas recommended that we go to Chartres, a smaller city just about an hour from Paris to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cathédrale de Chartres.
It only took 16 euros to buy a train ticket (unfortunately the Navigo Pass does not always work outside of Paris) and leave the hustle and bustle of Paris. The train ride was pleasant and such a beautiful sight, passing by all the fields and quiet suburbs. As we whisked by so many cute homes, I observed that the sharply angled rooftops is a very French style of building architecture.
When we arrived in Chartres, I immediately felt at peace in such a pleasant and calm city. The buildings are much smaller and the streets were much more empty, it seems like a common getaway for many Parisians.
The Chartres Cathedral was was built during the 12th and 13th centuries, and is now one of the chief examples of French Gothic architecture.
Upon first glance at the cathedral you notice the stark contrast between the two towers. They are asymmetrical (reminiscent of Royce Hall), built in the Gothic and Romanesque style. The older tower (north or left on the image), is referred to as clocher neuf, interestingly enough, the new bell tower. It began construction in 1134 and was completed in 1150. This tower is built in the detailed Gothic style. The clocher vieux (the old bell tower), began construction in 1141 and was completed in 1155.
Aside from the spectacular exterior, the interior reveals some of the most beautiful stained glass in the world, most of which are the original pieces. These photos simply do not do the colors and details justice. The stained glass images depict many bible stories and parables that are instruction for members of the church.
Inside the cathedral there are beautiful sculptures that have been magnificently renovated over decades, to reveal the original glory of the art.
Here is an example of just a small tile that is being restored (not without controversy of course, from those who would rather it be kept in its original state).
This altar sculpture, L'Assomption, is walled off by a very intricate wall, the channel screen. Originally built during the 13th century, was destroyed, and then rebuilt in the 18th century. It has 40 scenes that depict the life of the Virgin Mary and Jesus.
Aside from the famous flying buttresses, to me the most stunning architectural feat was the massive organ mounted on the wall of the church. I have absolutely no idea how the instrument manages to stay put. Although it is not the original organ from the 14th century, it is still in a stunning Neo-classical design.
But my favorite part of the entire cathedral was getting to climb up the top of the Gothic tower. It was over 300 steps up a narrow and winding staircase, but it was completely worth it. From the tower you can see all of Chartres, how the cathedral is in the shape of a cross, and the gargoyles upon gargoyles in very close detail.
And the best part was that it was free with our ACCENT and Cité IDs! Thank you ACCENT for hooking it up!
Cathédral de Chartres is also incredibly famous for the artifact, the Sancta Camisa. It is supposedly the robe worn by the Virgin Mary when she gave birth to the Christ. It is hidden in a glass case, well protected, and has survived a fire that occurred hundred of years ago. Over centuries pilgrims have come to visit the sacred artifact.
Before coming to Paris I had never heard of Chartres, but it is truly a wonderful place, and worth the visit. The quiet and slower lifestyle was a breath of fresh air, and I would definitely recommend this city as a day trip from Paris. Thank you for the recommendation Dom Tom!
To see photos from Le Museé Canavalet Histoire de Paris, a museum we visited the day before, check this link.
And of course, don't forget to check out UCLA IEO for you own opportunities to study abroad!