Bourges Cathedral

Bourges Cathedral is a Gothic church building in central France featuring five large entrances along its western wall. Double flying buttresses support the structure, allowing for massive windows that flood the interior with light.

Construction began in 1195 under the leadership of an archbishop and continued for roughly a century to completion. This extended building period was common for major religious projects during the medieval period.

The stained glass windows display biblical stories and images of saints that visitors can follow and understand while walking through the space. These visual narratives were once the main way people learned about religious teachings.

The building provides ramp access and level entrances to accommodate visitors with different mobility needs. Visiting hours may shift on days when religious services take place, so checking ahead helps plan your visit.

This structure stands apart from other Gothic churches of its period because it lacks a transept, instead featuring a front porch and a separate entrance area on the south side. This unusual floor plan distinguishes it from standard church designs of that era.

Location: Bourges

Inception: 1195

Architectural style: classic gothic

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Part of: Way of Saint James UNESCO World Heritage Sites in France

Address: place Étienne-Dolet

Website: https://belleseglises.com/eglises/79

GPS coordinates: 47.08222,2.39917

Latest update: December 14, 2025 19:51