Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg, Catholic cathedral in Strasbourg, France
The Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg is a Catholic cathedral in the center of Strasbourg, France, combining Romanesque and Gothic architectural forms. Its western facade displays numerous figures and reliefs, while the interior holds high vaults and large glass windows that guide daylight through the space.
The first works began in 1015 after a fire destroyed an older building. Construction extended over several centuries, with Erwin von Steinbach directing the Gothic development from 1277 onward and adding the characteristic spire.
The name derives from the Virgin Mary, to whom the church is dedicated and who continues to draw pilgrims and visitors from across Europe. Throughout the day, people enter through the main portals and admire the colored windows that break the light into soft tones, filling the interior space.
The church opens daily and can be entered free of charge, with access to the tower platform available via a narrow spiral staircase. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as the steps are steep and the climb takes time.
Between 1647 and 1874, this building was the tallest in the world and exceeded every other human-made structure. Today, visitors can still see the astronomical clock inside, which sets mechanical figures in motion on the hour.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
