Église Notre-Dame de Calais, Gothic church in Calais, France
Notre-Dame de Calais is a church with an extended floor plan and soaring walls that follow a Latin cross layout with a large central nave. The structure combines various architectural influences assembled over multiple centuries.
Construction began in the thirteenth century and extended across the centuries with various architectural modifications made along the way. This prolonged building process reflects the changing styles and needs of successive generations.
The church holds a painting of the Descent from the Cross, once attributed to Peter Paul Rubens, as well as Gerard Seghers' depiction of the Assumption of the Virgin. These works reflect the artistic importance the place holds for its community.
The church is centrally located in the city and easily accessible on foot, while continuing to serve as an active parish church. As a place of active worship with regular religious services, visitors should check opening times and behave respectfully.
One noteworthy feature is a rainwater storage tank built by Vauban in 1691 on the north side of the central nave. This structure was designed as a precaution during potential sieges of the city.
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