Rouen Cathedral by wjames

Photography • Architecture • posted on Jul 07, 2010

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Description

Soaring into the heavens, the central spire of Cathedrale Notre-dame de Rouen (tallest in France) presides over smaller spires, turreted towers and intricately carved stonework to create one of the most famous cathedral facades in the world. Consecrated in 1063, a devastating fire destroyed all but the left spire. Most of the cathedral was rebuilt during the 13th century but over the years the original building has been embellished and enhanced. The first major adornment was the 250-ft Tour de Beurre funded by the wealthy citizens in return for the privilege of continuing to eat butter during Lent. It was not until 1876 that the 490-ft central spire was added. Badly damaged during WW2, skilled restoration work ensured that most of the original features were saved.