In France stands one of the oldest and most remarkable churches in the world. The Cathedral of Saint Peter of Beauvais is a stunning 157-foot architectural masterpiece that’s twice older than the United States of America.
Its construction started in 1225 where skilled stonemasons worked their hardest and fastest to build (in as little time as possible) the highest-vaulted cathedral in all of Europe.
In 1284, construction of the cathedral came to a halt when much of its roof collapsed in on itself. It may have been a major setback but the workers were determined to finish the structure and in no time, working on the massive Gothic design resumed. The work was again interrupted around the mid-1500s due to the Hundred Years War.
The church’s construction may have began hundreds of years ago but it has yet to be deemed finished. It’s basically an art piece that’s still considered a work in progress even to this day. With the quality of work put into its construction, you’re bound to notice many of its incredible features. However, one jaw-dropping “detail” of the cathedral definitely stands out from the rest.
See for yourself!
The cathedral stands tall and majestic in the quaint town of Beauvais.
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Looking at it, you’ll begin to understand why it took so long to build.
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Judging from its facade, which is unbelievably striking on every side, it’s no wonder why the cathedral has been called “the Parthenon of French Gothic”.
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The richness of the facades extend to its huge intricately carved door, clearly the work of a master.
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A magnificent view awaits as you enter the cathedral.
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The church, a perfect example of the transitional stage between Gothic and Renaissance style, truly is a masterpiece.
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Look up and there’s the cathedral’s soaring roof. I wonder how they did it hundreds of years ago.
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Rich shades of blue, red, yellow, and green – this stained glass will take your breath away.
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Can you believe some of the glass’ striking shades of blue can’t be reproduced anymore? Incredible!
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Christ returning on the stained glass. Look at those deep shades of red.
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Zooming out. These windows look absolutely gorgeous.
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When the sunlight shines through the window, the floor glows with all the tantalizing colors.
Now this here is truly an amazing element of the church. Between the masterfully crafted wood, stone, and glass. This 150-year-old astronomical clock stands out from the rest.
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Called the Beauvais astronomical clock, this gorgeous piece was the work of master clockmaker Lucien Auguste Vérité. The clock was finished in 1868 (it took Vérité two years to finish), and for obviously good reason.
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The clock has 52 dials that track the rising and setting of not only the sun but the moon as well.
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The dials also track the position of planets, the ocean tides, and the current time in 18 different cities around the world. Impressive!
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Jesus, surrounded by his 12 disciples. Who could have thought something as amazing as this clock can be found in a cathedral? What an amazing piece! What a wonderful cathedral!
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