Gothic style originates in France, where in the XII century he replaced the Romanesque. Later it swept all over Western Europe, until the Renaissance, after four centuries, oppressed it. The Gothic style can be traced in all medieval works of art: painting, stained glass, book miniature, fresco and sculpture. But most fully he showed his greatness in church architecture. The Gothic cathedral of that era is characterized by a richly decorated facade, columns, multi-color stained-glass windows, pointed-topped arches, as well as characteristic narrow and high towers. Gracefully executed sculptures of mythical creatures adorn the walls and roofs . The most magnificent Gothic monuments can be found in the territories of two European countries - France and Spain.
Gothic quarter of Barcelona
This is the oldest part of the legendary city and the most popular tourist area in Barcelona. To visit here and not to visit the pearl of the quarter - the cathedral of the Gothic cathedral (XIII-XV centuries) is blasphemy.
Walking along the winding streets of the quarter, you can see the remains of the Roman Wall, the Basilica of La Merce, the ruins of the Palace of Octavian Augustus, the 14th-century Gothic Church of Santa Maria del Pi and the Royal Palace, from where the Count of Barcelona and the kings of Aragon ruled their subjects. After seeing the ancient buildings, you can stroll along the Royal Square and St. James's Square. After tiring, but such interesting excursions, guests of the city head to the Four Cats art cabaret. It is famous not only for its history, but also for its world famous visitors. Pablo Picasso and his friend Antonio Gaudi, Rusignolles, Isaac Albenis, Ramon Casas and Gonzalez loved to visit here.
Gothic cathedrals of France
The most significant works of medieval architectural art in France are the churches of Chartres, Amiens, Angers, Reims and, of course, Paris. Historians believe that the first Gothic building was the church of Saint-Denis. Her project was created by Abbot Suger. During its construction, they got rid of many supports and internal walls. So the church has become more graceful in comparison with the religious buildings of the Romanesque style, which are sometimes called the "fortresses of God."
The Gothic Cathedral of Chartres, located 90 km from Paris, was built on the site of an older church, the property of which - the holy shroud of the Virgin Mary, stored since 876 - passed into the Cathedral of Our Lady of Chartres. Tourists visit the world famous Reims Cathedral for two main reasons. Firstly, it is a representative of the high Gothic style of the times of its highest prosperity, and secondly, it is a place where almost all French monarchs have been crowned for many centuries. The majestic Gothic cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris is not necessary. He was glorified the whole world with his work βNotre Dame de Parisβ Victor Hugo in the first half of the century before last. The Temple of Reason, such was given its name during the French Revolution, was built for several centuries. Every year, 14 million people visit it. Many of them seek to visit nearby one of the main shrines of Christians around the world - the crown of thorns of Jesus Christ, which has been kept in the cathedral since August 18, 1239.