Rodez Cathedral, Gothic cathedral in Rodez, France.
Rodez Cathedral is a Gothic building with two massive towers integrated into the city walls and a bell tower standing 87 meters high. The interior displays a mix of Gothic and Renaissance elements with an ornately decorated choir and colored glass windows.
Construction started in 1277 after the previous bell tower collapsed, under architect Jean Deschamps' direction. It was completed in 1542 following more than two centuries of continuous work.
The choir is separated from the nave by a remarkable Renaissance screen that visibly marks the division between clergy and worshippers. The windows display biblical scenes from different periods and tell stories of Christian faith.
Access is available daily, with the western facade and its integrated towers easily visible from outside. The best time to visit is in the morning when light streams through the windows, making details of the choir and decorations clearly visible.
In the 18th century, scientist Méchain used the bell tower as a surveying point for calculations to determine Earth's measurements. His measurements helped define the meter as an international standard.
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